Raul Jimenez Saves Fulham with Two Penalties in 2-2 Draw

Raul Jimenez secured a dramatic brace with a stoppage-time penalty, helping Fulham salvage a 2-2 draw against Ipswich in a second half featuring three spot-kicks. Fulham dominated possession but entered halftime trailing after Sammie Szmodics fired in a rebound to give Ipswich the lead. The drama intensified after the break when Fulham leveled as Jimenez calmly converted a penalty. Referee Darren Bond initially dismissed Fulham’s claims that Ipswich captain Sam Morsy fouled Harry Wilson but changed his decision after a VAR review.

Just 21 seconds after play resumed, Timothy Castagne fouled Liam Delap in the box, allowing Delap to restore Ipswich’s lead with his eighth league goal of the season. Ipswich nearly secured the win when Jack Clarke’s shot hit the post but Fulham launched a quick counterattack. Raul Jimenez brought down by Leif Davis, stepped up and confidently buried his second penalty extending Fulham’s unbeaten league run to eight games.

Fulham manager Marco Silva criticized referee Bond, particularly for a first-half incident when Bond booked Davis instead of sending him off for fouling Wilson. Silva, who also received a booking, argued that Fulham deserved all three points due to their dominance and missed chances including a header Emile Smith Rowe sent wide. Ipswich, fighting to escape relegation, lamented missed opportunities.

Clarke’s near-miss could have moved them out of the drop zone but the team showcased significant improvement. Manager Kieran McKenna highlighted his team’s resilience and effective counter-attacks with standout contributions from Delap and Szmodics. Fulham hold ninth place in the Premier League while Ipswich sit 18th, level on points with Wolves. Despite the draw, Ipswich’s recent performances demonstrate their growing confidence and ability to compete in the top flight.