‘Pressure is on Cardiff’ as Fulham edge back into promotion places after win at Millwall

Fulham's 3-0 win lifted them ahead of Cardiff, although they have played two more games

McDonald scored an impressed long-range effort (PA)

Kevin McDonald insists “the pressure is on Cardiff” in the race for automatic promotion after an important win at Millwall pushed Fulham back into second place.

The west Londoners extended their unbeaten run to 22 games with a 3-0 victory at The Den, becoming the first side to win there since November.

All three goals came in a second half they comprehensively dominated, with Ryan Sessegnon, McDonald, who was named man of the match, and Aleksandar Mitrovic all on the scoresheet.

Now sitting in the one remaining automatic spot, the Cottagers continue to make strides, but Cardiff are just two points behind with two games in hand to build a gap back up of their own.

And McDonald praised his side’s tenacity as they continue the fight for a place in the Premier League next season.

“The pressure’s back on them [Cardiff],” he said. “We went out there and performed tonight under pressure – it’s up to them. At the end of the day it’s a tough ask still, but at least we gave ourselves a chance again.”

“I think obviously we can [gain promotion], but it’s out of our hands now, that’s the problem. If it was in our hands, I’d say 100 per cent. Now I’m thinking we’re relying on other teams. Some teams could be on their summer holidays – hopefully that’s not the way.

“As long as we win our games that’s the main thing, we can’t do any more. And if we get automatic promotion then fantastic, and if not then we’ll be ready to go in the play-offs.”

The Scottish midfielder reserved special praise for Sessegnon, who claimed the opener on Friday night. Sessegnon, who is just 17, has been turning heads throughout the year, and is the first ever player outside the Premier League to be shortlisted for the PFA’s Young Player of the Year award.

Sessegnon continued his impressive scoring run (PA)

“Sess has been consistent all season,” said McDonald, “For such a young kid, he impresses every game. There’s times over the last few games he’s been a bit tired, but he picks himself up on the big stage tonight, and he does well.”

“We’re happy to have him. How long we’ll have him for, I’m not sure, but he’s doing well for us just now.”

Millwall still have a chance of joining Wolves, and potentially Fulham, in the top flight, as they remain in sixth. McDonald made note of the The Den’s atmosphere, saying despite the defeat the home fans had done themselves proud.

“I thought the atmosphere was fantastic to be honest, I really did,” he said. “I thought it was the best atmosphere we’ve had all season at an away game. I thought the fans from first minute to even when they got beat 3-0, they were still behind their team and that’s fair enough.

“It’s a real hostile place to come. It’s a harsh place to say the least, but they stuck behind their team at all times and I respect that.”

Fulham next host Sunderland on Friday at Craven Cottage, who could already be relegated when they arrive depending on results across the weekend.