Hodgson: Pressure got to Fulham

Published: 09 Jul 2009 - 08:55:00

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Fulham manager Roy Hodgson insists a simple lack of fitness at this early stage of pre-season proved the Cottagers' downfall in their 2-1 defeat by A-League side Gold Coast United on Wednesday night. Danny Murphy put Fulham ahead after 16 minutes at Skilled Park but as the match wore on the visitors struggled to match their spirited opponents. "We did quite well for 60 or 70 minutes, considering it was our first game after just four days of training," said Hodgson. "After they scored their first goal there was always going to be a lot of pressure on us and some of our guys just aren't used to that pressure." Brazilian striker Milson came off the bench to head home the equaliser after 80 minutes and New Zealand striker Shane Smeltz struck the winner from close range with four minutes remaining. Fulham continue their pre-season preparations in Australia against A-League champions Melbourne Victory on Saturday.