Bournemouth claimed a crucial away victory at Craven Cottage, with Rayan's second-half strike securing a 1-0 win that strengthens their European push.
Fulham dominated possession but couldn't find the breakthrough they needed. Bournemouth's clinical finishing and defensive resolve proved decisive in this tight Premier League contest. The result keeps the visitors in sixth place while Fulham remain in mid-table.
The match began with intensity as both teams looked to make an early impact. Fulham controlled the ball in the opening stages, enjoying 60 percent possession throughout the afternoon. However, Bournemouth's compact defensive shape limited clear-cut chances in the opening exchanges.
The first half took a dramatic turn in the 41st minute when Bournemouth's R. Christie received a red card. The incident changed the tactical landscape, forcing the visitors to reorganize their approach. Fulham appeared poised to capitalize on their numerical advantage heading into the break.
Just before halftime, the match grew even more chaotic. Fulham's J. Andersen saw red in the 45+7th minute, leveling the numbers at 10 players each. The dismissals set up a fascinating second-half battle between two depleted squads.
Bournemouth made the most of their opportunity immediately after the restart. Rayan struck in the 53rd minute, finding the back of the net to give the away side a precious lead. The goal came against the run of play, with Fulham having created more chances overall.
Fulham pressed hard to find an equalizer but couldn't break through. Rodrigo Muniz received a yellow card in the 50th minute as frustration grew. Bournemouth's goalkeeper made three crucial saves to preserve the advantage.
The match descended into a scrappy affair with both teams struggling to maintain rhythm. Yellow cards accumulated as tensions rose, with S. Lukic cautioned for Fulham in the 59th minute. A. Scott joined him in the book during the 65th minute.
Bournemouth's defensive discipline held firm despite sustained pressure from the home side. A. Robinson picked up a yellow in the 77th minute, followed by J. King in the 82nd minute. M. Tavernier received the final caution in the 90+6th minute.
The statistics told a story of Fulham's dominance without reward. Fulham attempted 13 total shots but managed only two on target, generating 0.95 expected goals. Bournemouth's five shots on goal proved more efficient, with their clinical approach earning the three points.
Marcos Senesi starred for Bournemouth with a 7.9 rating, anchoring the defense through a testing afternoon. Timothy Castagne and Tom Cairney also impressed for Fulham despite the defeat. Rayan's match-winning contribution earned him a 7.3 rating despite limited involvement.
This victory lifts Bournemouth to 52 points from 35 matches, maintaining their push for European football. Fulham remain on 48 points, their mid-table position unchanged. The gap between the teams now stands at four points with the season entering its final stretch.
