Brentford finally ran out of steam on Friday evening in a game that Middlesbrough pretty much controlled from start to finish … Despite the possession stats. There could be no complaints about the outcome, in what proved to be the Bees’ eighth play-off failure.
But unlike the previous seven knock-backs, there was a real sense pride and achievement among the travelling fans, and the rousing singing that filled the final 15 minutes will remain one of my finest memories of being a Brentford fan… None of us had gone to the north east to lose, and we all wished that the outcome had been different, but that wonderful resonating chanting had genuine healing powers and provided a fitting, uplifting finale.
Boro made it four wins over the Bees this campaign, and the three goals they notched in front of a bouncing Riverside Stadium took the combined score to 10-1 on aggregate… I think that shows, that although it’s been a cracking season, there’s still some way to go before we’re ready for the next level… Which is where we are now focusing in the post-Warburton era that follows.
This is less a report, more a reflection (who wants to pick over the bones in too much detail?) but it did seem fitting, that in the lull in the proceedings between the pitch being cleared of happy Boro fans, and the return of the home players to do a lap of honour, there was time to allow the Bees players to come over to the travelling fans and for us all to show our mutual appreciation for one another.
As you can tell from watching the Beesotted video above, and the (slightly drunken) Pride of West London Beesotted post match podcast, there was some equally proud thoughts shared about the boys in red and white this season.
Mark Warburton was also given a rousing, and final, rendition of his anthem, and it was clear that it was an emotion walk back towards the dressing room for the hugely likeable outgoing manager. That last look over his shoulder was a moving moment, it has to be said.
So, that’s it for another season… It’s been an absolute joy travelling around the country with Billy the Bee (and our crew) producing the Beesotted output week in week out… a truly wonderful season… the best ever.
Here’s to 2015/16 whatever that may bring… “Brentford FC… Brentford FC… Brentford FC…”
Dave Lane
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