It was a bottom table clash that meant a lot to both teams, but Fulham and Derby both played out a drab and dull draw that does nothing to help them move away from the relegation zone in the Premiership.

At Craven Cottage though both teams put caution first rather than going for the kill and in more ways than one that was the problem. Fulham goalkeeper Antti Niemi was the one who had the bulk of saves to make in the game.

In fact the Cottagers have him to thank for gaining one point from this match. It has almost been three months since Fulham last one a Premier League game and the patience of the fans is beginning to wear thin.

Matt Oakley started the attack for Derby early on and in the 11th minute his pass to Kenny Miller whose shot looked headed for the goal, but Niemi palmed it away at the last minute to give the home side a breather. Eddie Lewis threatened minutes later, but Niemi was on hand to save the day once again. Seol Ki-Hyeon replied almost immediately for Fulham, but his shot went just wide.

On the half-hour mark Steven Davis executed a masterful chip, but Danny Murphy was unable to slot it home. Just before half-time Claude Davis had to go off with an injury and Derby boss Billy Davies replaced him with Giles Barnes.

Things turned worse for the home side when Paul Konchesky was sent off elbowing Fagan just before the break. In the second half, Derby County began to take advantage of their numbers and Niemi had to be alert to push off Oakley's shot on 55 minutes. The game got ragged toward the end, but neither team was able to score and had to be satisfied with a draw.

Fulham are placed 13th on the Premier League table with 8 points from 10 games, while Derby are at the 19th spot with 6 points from 10 games.

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