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Al Fayed : Fuham's Season of Victories

last updated Wednesday 19th May 2010, 9:15 AM
Al Fayed

It was freezing cold in Hamburg, but the passion, courage and strength shown by the Whites warmed the hearts of everyone watching; from the fans in the stadium, to the people at home, many of whom are not typically Fulham supporters - everyone was cheering us on, the only British team to make it to the final.

Zamora's game was impeccable, and in spite of his leg injury he skilfully took the ball towards the Spanish net before flicking to Zoltan Gera whose cross to Simon Davies ended in a great equalising goal. It was this determination and team work that knocked the wind out of Atletico. We seized on this, taking control for most of the second half. Gera, Konchesky, Hughes and Hangeland worked hard to deny the Spaniards any advantage, and Schwarzer did an excellent job when the ball did go Atletico's way. In the end, after playing 63 matches in just ten months, it is understandable, and tribute to us that we kept the ball out of the goal right up until the final four minutes of extra time, Atletico were just that bit faster on the ball.

I am full of pride for Roy and the boys - what they achieved in Hamburg and throughout the entire season, is nothing short of phenomenal. They led us to victory over Shakhtar Donetsk, Wolfsburg and Juventus taking us in triumph all the way to the Europa League Final. And it is in triumph that we end this season; we might not have won in terms of lifting the cup, but what we did win is worth much, much more than a piece of silver.

We succeeded where all the other British teams failed. We fought bravely against all odds, earning our place in the final. We showed that good players who work hard, and who show great character, spirit and skill are key to developing a team that can inspire and lead and win; and, of course, an incredible manager, Roy Hodgson, who has rightfully earned his place in history.

We won't look back on this season with regret, but with pride. Because we won what many teams fail to win in a lifetime - an unprecedented degree of respect and support that saw British football fans unite and cheer on Fulham with heart.

Thank you to Roy, to the players and of course to you, the fans for your fantastic support. We're still standing; we still believe; and we'll be back even stronger next season after the boys have had a well earned rest. Come on you Whites!

Source www.alfayed.com
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