Two goals in the last five minutes secured a 2-0 win for Brentford in the West London Derby, denting Fulham’s promotion chances in the process.
Brentford Win at Fulham in Championship
Bees Sting The Cottagers
It was a quiet start to the match. The first ten minutes consisted of players being conservative and just knocking the ball about to teammates. But you could understand why, it was their first competitive match in over three months and they were still feeling their way into the match.
Brentford had more of the ball in that period, but it was Fulham with better chances. Aleksander Mitrovic’s header had his header saved by David Raya, which was followed by Bobby Reid hitting the bar.
Brentford did find their rhythm midway through the first half and had some good chances themselves. Tariqe Fosu first forced a save out Marek Rodak, and then Christian Norgaard had his effort deflected wide.
More Creative Second Half
It was a compact first half with few clear cut chances. But, it was clear what both managers wanted from their players, to keep it tight for the first 45 and become more adventurous in the second.
And the game did open up after the break, with Fulham having the greater of the early chances. A casual error from Norgaard eventually led to Mitrovic finding the net, however, it was disallowed, and Norgaard breathed a sigh of relief.
The Serbian striker was purring, but when he pounced on Joe Bryan’s cross, Raya was there to parry it away.
But just as in the first half, Brentford would grow into the match. However, they were unable to make the most of their chances. Pontus Jansson’s free-kick first went wide and then Ollie Watkins blazed his attempt over the crossbar.
Thomas Frank looked a frustrated man when the Sky Sports cameras were on him with 15 minutes left. But that would turn into a smile by full-time.
Brentford Leave it Late
Emiliano Marcondes came on with the minutes to go, and he had a huge impact on the match. The Danish midfielder’s low cross found Saïd Benrahma, who slotted home from two yards.
Fulham instantly went in search for an equaliser, they won a corner which Brentford dealt with. Instantly the visitors went on the counter, Benrahama played a long ball to Marcondes who rifled past Rodek to seal the deal.
It’s a big blow for Fulham. They are now seven points adrift of the top two, with their hopes of automatic promotion fading away.
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