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Brentford travel to Hartlepool tomorrow with Uwe Rosler forced into changing his starting XI

Tuesday night’s thriller at Sheffield United has left Brentford without striker Clayton Donaldson for one game due to suspension, whilst skipper Tony Craig will now miss three games after the FA refused to overturn his own red card yesterday.

Whilst Donaldson has been an emphatic attacking figure for The Bees this season, his absence can quite plausibly be covered by Bradley Wright-Phillips, Farid El Alagui or, perhaps, Harry Forrester.

Tony Craig could, however, be harder to replace at centre half although we have the ever reliable Kevin O’Connor likely to step in.

Youngster Aaron Pierre, who made his debut and sole first team appearance as a substitute in the JPT at Southend United earlier in the season, may well be added to the squad whilst the powerful Tom Adeyemi, who is himself an injury doubt for the game, might be another option.

Jonathan Douglas missed the midweek clash at The Blades but Rosler will be hoping that he can restore his midfield general to our starting line-up a week after he limped off against Portsmouth.

Whilst Brentford will be aiming for three points and a strengthened goal difference tomorrow evening, the relegated hosts are unlikely to simply roll over. Hartlepool have in fact won both of their two previous games – including victory over Tranmere last time out – and will want to salvage some more pride in front of their home support.

Games against relegated sides are by no means bankers at this stage of the season – many supporters will remember a care-free Wycombe playing some free flowing football at Griffin Park and claiming a 1-1 draw in a hiccup to the “Great Escape” under Martin Allen.

Rosler’s team will have the benefit of knowing the results of Doncaster and Bournemouth’s games before we kick off – but to most fans the maths is still pretty simple – two good wins and we should be promoted.

Come on You Reds.

Condorman