Steve Sidwell has admitted that Fulham's 2-1 victory over Newcastle United tonight was crucial in helping them keep in touch with the sides above them.
The midfielder was among the goals as Martin Jol's side ended a seven-match winless run with success against the out-of-form Magpies.
"It was massive. In the table before the game there was a bit of a gap between us and the teams above so it was important for us to get the three points and keep in touch," Sidwell told Sky Sports News.
"We came out of the traps first half and got the goal. The second half they really pushed us and got the equaliser but Hugo [Rodallega] popped up with a header and we hung in there."
The result sees Fulham move seven points clear of the relegation zone and to within two points of the Premier League top half.