So, it’s the morning after the night before, and I am still pinching myself, still excited, and amazed at how results panned out on Saturday afternoon.
I am also so proud that Brentford’s season isn’t over. We now have two, or hopefully three, more games to show the world what a talented, spirited team we follow.
The result was all that mattered against a spirited Wigan side, who were cheered on by an impressively lively and good humoured following, and it was fully understandable that with so much at stake, Griffin Park was a nervy place to be until all the stars started to align. As the Derby County and Ipswich Town scores filtered their way through the stands, little pockets of cheers erupted, then spread to every corner of the ground. Wonderful scenes.
Alex Pritchard’s deflected free kick broke the deadlock and eased the nerves about Brentford not doing what was in their own hands, but from then on in, the boys in red and white were very impressive… Relaxing and imposing their pressing, passing game.
Jota made it two just after the break, then a series of excellent chances were served up, until the advantage was finally extended following Jota’s wonderful reverse pass was smashed home by Andre Gray. James Tarkowski then kept his 100pc penalty taking record in tact, by missing his second spot kick of the season… Thankfully it didn’t affect either the result, or the play-off place outcome.
The scenes of celebration that followed the final whistle, with hundreds of Bees fans enjoying the moment with friends on the Griffin Park pitch were wonderful… And carried on long into the night in the pubs around the town.
So it is Middlesbrough over two legs for the chance of a Wembley Premier League final showdown… Brentford have the beating of Boro, we proved that in the game at Griffin Park, and the players will, I’m sure, be chomping at the bit to put the record straight and continue this fairy-tail season for as long as possible.
For Brentford to have finished fifth in the Championship is truly remarkable after decades of mediocrity, but Mark Warburton’s team have played the best football of any team in the division all season long in my opinion, and the reward, and the ones that may follow, are fully deserved.
Bring on the Boro!
Dave Lane
