Keith Andrews’ reign as Brentford head coach began with a positive showing on Friday night, as the Bees drew 1-1 with Primeira Liga side Gil Vicente in northern Portugal.
A decent number of Bees fans made the trip to Barcelos, adding a splash of red and white to the Estádio Cidade and giving great backing throughout after taking advantage of a trip abroad to see the team.
It was Igor Thiago who got the goal for Brentford, finishing off a well-worked move involving Mikkel Damsgaard and Fábio Carvalho after some neat link-up down the left. That came just minutes after Gil Vicente had taken the lead, punishing a slip at the back.
There were first starts for summer signings Caoimhín Kelleher and Jordan Henderson – and while both had good moments, there was a bit of early-season rust in patches. As one fan said on Beesotted post-match:
“Carvalho, Schade and Dams all look very sharp. Hendo & Kayode a bit rusty.”
Henderson did bring control to the midfield in spells, and Kelleher made a tidy stop before half-time to keep things level. Meanwhile, Schade looked electric on the break, and Carvalho continued to impress with his movement and intent.
A real highlight was the return of Aaron Hickey, playing his first first-team minutes since October. The fans took note:
“It’s brilliant that Hickey is properly back. Fair play to him.”
In all, 24 players were involved as Andrews used the full squad, including a debut for 20-year-old Antoni Milambo. There were good spells of possession, some slick combinations, and clear signs of the squad building sharpness ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
Donovan’s cameo down the right added energy late on – just what we like to see in pre-season.
“Donovan wants the ball and wants to run at people. Brave wingers are important.”
The only downside was the sight of Gustavo Nunes going off with an injury early on – let’s hope it’s nothing serious, as we all want to see more from a player who has been plagued by injuries since he joined.
It should also be noted that several Bees fans in the stadium noted that Keith Andrews didn’t come over to applaud at the final whistle with his players. Let’s give him the benefit of the doubt this time, he’s on a big learning curve, but post-match thanks and acknowledgment is a basic requirement.
All told, a decent first runout for Andrews’ Bees. Encouraging signs, minutes in the legs, and plenty to build on. Next stop on the tour: Braga on Tuesday.
Dave Lane
Andrews not applauding supporters is to me just like a friend you dont see or phone regularly.
Dont mean you dont love and respect them.
I go to watch the game not get recognition for my attendance.
Im sure there was nothing meant by it.
As long as he performs well as a coach who cares.
Its about supporting your team not getting a badge of appreciation.