We look at five talking points that came out of Fulham’s narrow opening day defeat at Barnsley.
1. New rules
The 2019/20 season has seen the introduction of several new rules, including the allowance of defenders in the penalty area for goal-kicks. Fulham took advantage of this on Saturday, with the centre-backs in close proximity to Marcus Bettinelli, demonstrating that Scott Parker seems keen to play out from the back in the manner that we’ve become accustomed to by the team in recent years.
2. Knocking on the door
Anthony Knockaert’s performance after coming off the bench in the 65th minute was a bright spark in what was otherwise a disappointing afternoon. The winger caused Barnsley all manner of problems with his direct running and eye for goal, and he’ll be hoping he showed enough in his cameo to have earned a start against Blackburn Rovers.
3. A long way to go
While none of us wanted to see the Whites come away from Oakwell empty handed, it’s worth remembering that it’s only one game. With 135 points still to play for, it’s far from panic stations for Parker and the lads.
4. Away support
Fulham’s relegation from the Premier League has not deterred the faithful from travelling in their droves to support the lads. Around 1,700 away fans made the long journey to South Yorkshire for the curtain raiser, with many having to navigate severely disrupted train routes to do so.
5. Barnsley’s home record
The Tykes went the entirety of the 2018/19 season unbeaten at home – the only side in all four divisions to not lose a match in any competition on their own patch. That Oakwell resilience was apparent on Saturday, and one would expect them to have an enjoyable campaign back in the Championship if they can come close to replicating that form.