Leeds still in danger after Meslier errors in loss at Fulham

LONDON — Leeds remained in relegation danger in the Premier League after losing 2-1 at Fulham on the back of two mistakes from goalkeeper Illan Meslier on Saturday.

Both of Fulham’s goals came in the second half after Meslier failed to deal with the crosses from the left, with Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira benefitting from the goalkeeper only parrying the ball out into the middle of the area.

An own-goal by Joao Palhinha in the 79th gave some late hope for Leeds, which started the game two points above the relegation zone and fell to a fourth loss in its last five games.

The win could have been bigger for Fulham, with free-kick shots from Pereira and Willian hitting the goal frame in a chaotic second half. Instead, the hosts settled for the goals of Wilson, who smashed a fierce shot in off the underside of the crossbar in the 58th following Willian’s cross, and Pereira, who couldn’t miss inside the six-yard box after Meslier’s flap directed the ball straight at the Brazilian midfielder in the 72nd.

Leeds fans voiced their displeasure, chanting “We want Orta out” — in reference to Victor Orta, the director of football — as well as the name of former manager Marcelo Bielsa.

Leeds was coming off heavy defeats to Crystal Palace (5-1) and Liverpool (6-1).

Fulham still has an outside shot at qualifying for European competitions next season.

Fulham’s Harry Wilson celebrates scoring his side’s first goal of the game, during the English Premier League soccer match between Fulham and Leeds United at Craven Cottage, London, Saturday April 22, 2023. Credit: AP/Steven Paston