The Brentford team should be kicking themselves (rather than it being Jon Toral’s job) that they got nothing out of the match at St Andrews on Saturday, a match in which they looked superior in so many ways to the Blues, yet came away without even a share of the spoils. And how Jon Toral wasn’t sent off for his dangerous, late tackle on Jack Bidwell, God only knows.
Just like last season’s visit, Brentford spluttered through and simply couldn’t convert decent spells of possession into gilt edged chances and it was only after the break, and after Brum had put their blue noses in front, that the visitors looked potent.
By that stage Hofmann had replaced Vibe up top, the Dane had received little service in truth, with the energetic Gogia make his comeback down the flank… it showed he could be a useful impact sub in the weeks ahead.
Alan Judge, who by his magnificent standards had a rare off day, had blasted a shot high and wide when played clean through, was the provider for the leveller after a strange free had seen his shot bounced off the keeper and into the path of the Hoff who made no mistake from close range.
And from that point it appeared Brentford could go on and win it, however, a stray ball from Harlee Dean as he stormed forward allowed Brum to break quickly into space, and out exposed defence conceded a late, and galling, second goal. The fans’ thoughts on the match can be heard on the Beesotted Pride of West London post-match podcast from the link below.
In truth this wasn’t a great day at the office for quite a few of the Brentford players after a busy Xmas and New Year programme, but it must be noted that when Brenrford don’t win, its been because they are below par on the day, rather than any fundamental flaws. Its inconsistency that needs to be addressed and the return of the more ruthless edge that saw us win at Reading last time out.
Dean Smith will no doubt consider shuffling the pack slightly for the visit of Walsall in the FA Cup next weekend, but fans will be hoping to see a reaction to this defeat and the bounce-back we have come to expect over the past few seasons.
Dave Lane
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We have only lost two games under DS. Both away against top opposition, both after levelling from being behind and both losing to a last minute goal. Arguably neither game were we at our best. Given that, having put all that effort in to levelling, is the policy of pushing for a winner away from home the right choice? Just putting it out there.
I accept if we had drawn both we would have two more points. Had we won one we’d have three more. Just asking.