Lampard back on target in derby
Frank Lampard has endured a barrage of criticism at the start of the season
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Saturday, 23, Sep 2006 08:05
Frank Lampard found the perfect answer to recent criticism of his Chelsea performances by claiming both goals in a 2-0 win in the west London derby against Fulham.
His manager Jose Mourinho will be especially thankful for the strikes as they brought victory over stubborn hosts and kept the pressure up on Manchester United who play Reading later this afternoon.
However Fulham will feel hard done by, having spurned several chances and had serious doubts over the penalty decision that allowed Lampard to open the scoring.
Chelsea were without captain John Terry as they sought to avenge the 1-0 reverse that they suffered on their previous visit to Craven Cottage, but were rarely tested at the back by a solid, but unspectacular Fulham side.
Arjen Robben, taking advantage of Michael Ballack's absence through suspension, came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half when he rattled the bar with a rasping 30-yard drive.
Fulham raised their attacking tempo after the break and had an early penalty appeal for Petr Cech's challenge on Michael Brown waved away by Mark Halsey.
Senegalese midfielder Papa Bouba Diop should have marked his return from injury with a crucial strike, but failed to connect when afforded a free header just yards from goal.
Chris Coleman's men were made to regret their profligacy as Chelsea responded with pressure of their own which eventually told when Liam Rosenior was controversially penalised for hand-ball in the penalty area.
Lampard eschewed precision for power and the tactic was justified as he slammed the ball into the roof of the net.
The England international added a second ten minutes later when he rewarded good work by the ever-impressive Michael Essien and Didier Drogba with a confident low finish.