1 min
Brentford continued their perfect Championship restart with a resounding 3-0 victory over Wigan Athletic at Griffin Park.
The home side took the lead in the 19th minute as Emiliano Marcondes flicked a header into the path of Said Benrahma, who hit a low volley into the back of the net.
And in a dominant first-half display they should have doubled their advantage in the 28th minute as Shandon Baptiste and Ollie Watkins linked up well, only for the former to scuff his shot wide.
Brentford began the second-half as they finished the first and were duly rewarded with a second in the 57th minute – Benrahma looping a sensational curling strike that Wigan keeper David Marshall could only watch and admire.
Nine minutes later the Algerian had his hat-trick with a tidy finish within the box into the bottom left of the net.
It was damage limitation for Wigan throughout who were further weakened as substitute Joe Garner was dismissed in the 81st minute for a wild karate kick on Jan Zamburek.
The result piles the pressure back on second-placed West Bromwich Albion who are now just two points ahead of Brentford and face Hull City tomorrow.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Said Benrahma’s second goal ended any hint of a Wigan comeback with the visitors quickly turning their attention to not conceding any more from then onwards.
Moan of the Match
Wigan’s complete and utter lack of attacking play combined with a weak defence was a recipe for disaster – one that Brentford were more than happy to capitalise on.
Talking Point
The win now means Brentford have won five in a row without conceding – an historic first. Surely Thomas Frank’s side will now be eyeing the top two?
Man of the Match
Said Benrahma – simply on a different level to anyone else on the pitch, or in the league for that matter.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Matt Donohue (Greater Manchester) – had a firm grasp on the game and made no major errors.
Atmosphere
Griffin Park has hosted thousands of Saturday 3pm games and it was a shame that this historic last was in front of empty stands.
Verdict
Brentford are arguably playing the best football in the division at the moment, and this victory will only fire their ambition for a top two finish.
