Fulham Hoping For Pass Marks

Jan 6 2008

Fulham V Bristol Rovers

DEJAN STEFANOVIC insists Fulham will use today's tie to start passing the ball instead of punting it up the park after casting off the shackles of Lawrie Sanchez's long-ball tactics.

Axed boss Sanchez's gameplan alienated the players who have embraced successor Roy Hodgson's approach.

Defender Stefanovic said: "It was frustrating for the team but we are now playing more of a passing game.

"We are taking the FA Cup seriously and there are not that many games between the third round and final."

Bristol Rovers first-team coach Paul Trollope is backing Hodgson to succeed.

He said: "Roywill help them climb the table and it will be great to pit my wits against such a knowledgeable coach."