1 min
Brentford recorded a fifth Championship win out of six with a narrow 1-0 victory over Reading at Griffin Park.
After a lacklustre opening period which saw a defensive lapse nearly gift the Bees an early lead, the game sparked into life in the second period.
Watkins’ 11th goal of the campaign in the 62nd minute, a well-taken header into the bottom-left corner from a Mathias Jensen cross, opened the game up as an attacking spectacle.
Minutes later Brentford were denied a second as Reading stopper Rafael Cabral somehow kept out a Watkins effort following a goalmouth scramble.
The rest of the half saw Reading dominate possession with the hosts dangerous on the counter but failing to find a finishing touch – Bryan Mbeumo particularly culpable late on.
The result means Brentford are up to eighth in the table, now just two points off the Play-Off places.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Watkins’ shot bundled off the line by Rafael minutes after the opener – had it gone in the game would have had a completely different complexion.
Moan of the Match
Josh Dasilva failed to get into the game meaning Brentford struggled to get the ball into the final third for their exciting attacking trio to feed off for much of the encounter.
Talking Point
Should Reading’s Andy Yiadom have been sent-off for a second foul on Rico Henry mid-way through the first-half?
Man of the Match
Said Benrahma – dangerous throughout, combining well with Henry on the left-hand side with his trickery and quick turn of pace.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
David Coote (Nottinghamshire) – firm but fair but arguably should have sent-off Yiadom for a second bookable offence.
Atmosphere
While the players may have taken their time to get going, both sets of fans were right behind their sides from the start.
Verdict
This was by no means a game of attacking quality but Brentford showed enough character to grind out a result and keep their good form going.
