1 min
Brentford had to settle for a point after a tepid goalless draw against in-form Middlesbrough at the Brentford Community Stadium.
An incredibly poor first-half saw just one half chance when Vitaly Janelt and Josh Dasilva linked up well for the latter to burst into the box and drag a right-footed effort wide.
The second period was livelier but still lacked quality with Middlesbrough’s Chuba Akpom firing over from just inside the box on 55 minutes.
The Bees then saw an effort cleared off the line from a long throw on the hour mark before Janelt fired over from close range when well placed.
Brentford had a lucky escape with just over a minute of normal time remaining when defensive chaos ensued only for Boro to be unable to capitalise.
Lewis Wing forced one final save from Brentford keeper David Raya but in the end a draw was a fair result in a frustrating affair.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Vitaly Janelt’s second-half miss from close range was the best chance of the game and should have seen Brentford take the lead and arguably all three points.
Moan of the Match
Brentford have to do better against teams employing a low block and move the ball faster to break them down.
Talking Point
Brentford’s struggles against the low block continued with their indecisiveness in midfield costing them possession on numerous occasions – how can they rectify this?
Man of the Match
Mads Bech Sorensen – defended well and dealt with Middlesbrough’s aerial threats well, winning four aerial duels.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
James Linington (Isle of Wight) – didn’t help the game flow at all and was very quick to blow his whistle.
Atmosphere
The referee’s below-par display added to the atmosphere created by the players on the pitch and made for some interesting battles.
Verdict
Brentford didn’t do anywhere near enough to win the game and have to improve their ability to break down the low block of tenacious sides like Neil Warnock’s Middlesbrough.
