Fulham progressed to the Championship play-off final despite falling to a 2-1 defeat to Cardiff City at Craven Cottage on Thursday evening.

It initially looked like a memorable comeback could have been on the cards early on as Curtis Nelson nodded in for the visitors, only for the in-form Neeskens Kebano to strike less than half a minute later to equalise on the night. Substitute Lee Tomlin then netted with his first touch after his introduction to ensure the tie remained alive in the final 40 minutes. The Bluebirds were not quite able to score what would have been a priceless equaliser, meaning Fulham are now just 90 minutes from an instant return to the Premier League.

Two early goals at Craven Cottage
Behind by two from the first-leg, it was key that the Bluebirds enjoyed a fast start at Craven Cottage and that is exactly what happened. From a corner, Marek Rodak failed to come for the ball and with Nelson out-strengthening his defenders, it was an easy header into the back of the net from close range.

The visitors were somewhat naive though as just 24 seconds later, Fulham equalised. Bobby Decordova-Reid was granted far too much space down the right and played the perfect ball to Kebano. He only required one touch as he coolly slotted home for his fifth goal in just four matches.

Scott Parker’s men had more chances to extend their aggregate advantage, with Josh Onomah and Ryan Christie having efforts blocked, before Anthony Knockaert at first had a low, curling shot pawed away by Alex Smithies and then also fired just over.