Brentford failed to find a cutting edge as they lost 2-0 to ten-man Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
After an even opening period, the Blades were awarded a 26th minute penalty when Yoann Barbet was adjudged to have fouled George Baldock inside the area.
Oliver Norwood converted from the spot before the hosts were then reduced to 10 men nine minutes later when Gary Madine saw red for a late challenge on Ezri Konsa.
The Bees responded after the break as Barbet saw an effort go wide before Sheffield United’s keeper Dean Henderson kept out Neal Maupay at full stretch.
Henderson then went close to scoring a bizarre own-goal, slicing a back-pass while Brentford’s Kamohelo Mokotjo saw his effort hit the post following a corner.
However, substitute David McGoldrick sealed the win in the 84th minute heading in from close range after John Fleck’s corner was headed back by Jack O’Connell.