The Craven Cottage encyclopedia - Alex Hayes

From their beginning in 1879, Fulham have been no strangers to victory. Originally known as Fulham St Andrew's Sunday School FC, they won the West London Amateur Cup in 1887 and the West London league title in 1893, before turning professional in 1898 and acquiring their current name. After winning the Southern League title in successive seasons, the club joined the Second Division of the Football League. Although the Cottagers have a reputation for unpredictability, they won the Second Division Championship in seasons 1948-49 and 1998-99, and reached the FA Cup final in 1975, when they lost 2-0 to West Ham United. They have boasted players of the calibre of Jim Hammond, Bedford Jezzard, Eddie Lowe, Bobby Robson, Graham Leggat, Les Barratt, Les Strong and Gordon Davies. And such stars as Bobby Moore, George Best and Rodney Marsh have also appeared with the side over the years. THE CRAVEN COTTAGE ENCYCLOPEDIA is the ultimate guide to Fulham Football Club, from the players to the managers, from the quickest goal to the Anglo-Scottish Cup, from the biggest victory to the worst defeat. It is a must for every fan of the club.