Bullard strike earns vital victory

Jimmy Bullard's late free kick provided Fulham with a much needed victory against Aston Villa to win 2-1. Fulham were a goal down after Aaron Hughes scored an own goal from a corner, but Fulham soon pegged back with a simple tap in from Simon Davies. In the 85th minute Bullard then took centre stage scoring from a 25 yard free kick.

Fulham gave three debuts, Nevland, Andreason and Hangeland. Andreason and Hengeland played well in the first half keeping Aston Villa away with chances few and far between.

In the second half the game came to life when Aaron Hughes looped the ball into his own net on the 69th minute.

Aston Villa could have widened the margin as Laursen skied a half volley from 12 yards and Carew tamely headed a cross into the arms of Niemi

In many games Fulham were the team that scored first, only to let their lead slip, but this time it was Fulham who hit back. Bullard played a neat one-two with Dempsey and then played the ball across goal for Simon Davies to tap in.

Provider then turned scorer as Bullard secured the three points with his bullet free-kick making it 2-1.

Martin Oneil's woes became worse as Gabriel Agbonlahor was forced off with an injury at half time and looks set to miss the England friendly against Switzerland.

We do not know the true extent of his injury but Martin Oneil and Aston Villa will be hoping he can make a quick recovery.

Fulham: Niemi, Baird, Hughes, Andreasen, Hangeland, Konchesky, Bullard, Davies, Murphy, Dempsey (Kamara 79), Nevland (McBride 70).

Subs Not Used: Keller, Volz, Bocanegra.

Booked: Davies.

Aston Villa: Carson, Mellberg, Laursen, Davies (Osbourne 90), Bouma (Gardner 87), Petrov, Barry, Reo-Coker, Maloney, Agbonlahor (Harewood 46), Carew.

Subs Not Used: Taylor, Knight.

Booked: Bouma, Davies.