A three-nil home leg victory over NSI Runavik last Thursday produced the perfect cushion for Martin Jol’s Team to head to the Faroe Islands this week and secure a place in the next UEFA Europa League Qualifying Round.
Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is certainly hoping for another memorable European adventure this season and the Australian international spoke of the professional approach Fulham are taking to every match during the early rounds.
“It’s a European game [against NSI Runavik], whether it’s the first round, the fourth, or the fifth, it’s still a big game,” said Schwarzer. “Obviously the opposition is one that people will look at and think ‘it’s a nothing game,’ but for us it’s important to win the game. All you have to do is think about what would happen if you lose the game, that’s enough motivation for anyone.
“It’s still very early in the competition and this time we’re in round one, so we’ve got to do it like we did last time and take every round as it comes. As long as we can maintain our good performances in the Premier League, as well as in Europe, everyone will be happy.
“I think the teams that start off early do really well at the start of the season – let’s just wait and see. Let’s hope we get the balance right between work and rest. Hopefully we can have a very good season again.”
Schwarzer and company certainly seem to be enjoying their work under Martin Jol following the Dutchman’s arrival at Craven Cottage, as the Australian keeper pointed out prior to Wednesday’s flight to the Faroe Islands.
“He’s [Martin Jol] been good, he’s obviously got a lot of experience in the game and he’s held some very big coaching positions over the last couple of years. He’s a big personality, he’s slotted in very easily and the players have responded really well. He has the utmost respect from all the players."