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Brian McBride’s second-half header gave Fulham a ray of light in their battle to avoid Premier League relegation but dented Everton’s European hopes.

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Joseph Yobo flicked Simon Davies’ cross into McBride’s path and the American headed past the helpless Tim Howard. Everton’s best chance came through Yakubu who forced Kasey Keller into a fine save, but they created little. Davies should have doubled Fulham’s lead but he failed to convert Jimmy Bullard’s delightful cross. This was only Fulham’s fourth victory in the Premier League and leaves the Londoners effectively four points from safety because of their inferior goal difference. Roy Hodgson’s men deserved the win and the smiles on his players’ faces when the final whistle blew illustrated how crucial a victory this could prove to be. Fulham have matches against fellow strugglers Newcastle, Derby, Sunderland, Reading and Birmingham remaining and survival could be within their grasp.