1 min
An Ivan Toney inspired Brentford ended their eight game Premier League winless streak to collect a hugely important 3-1 victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road.
The hosts started on the front foot with Brentford keeper David Raya making a huge save to deny Milot Rashica from close range in the third minute.
Rashica would then cause problems again as his rasping cross would land at the feet of Josh Sargent who fired over from 12 yards out.
However, it was Brentford who took the lead just past the half hour mark as Christian Eriksen’s corner was flicked on by Kristoffer Ajer for Toney to tap home at the back post.
And the Bees doubled their advantage in the 52nd minute as Ben Gibson’s high foot awarded them a penalty via VAR with Toney duly dispatching.
And the forward completed his hat-trick five minutes later, again scoring from the penalty spot after Gibson brought him down in the box.
Brentford saw out the rest of the game with relative ease although Norwich’s Teemu Pukki did score a consolation at the death.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Ivan Toney’s first ever Premier League hat-trick gave Brentford a priceless victory in this relegation six-pointer.
Moan of the Match
Teemu Pukki’s added time consolation goal ruined Brentford’s chance of a first clean sheet since November 26th.
Talking Point
The 4-3-3 worked a treat for Thomas Frank’s side this afternoon – will the Danish boss stick with this set-up for the Premier League run-in?
Man of the Match
Ivan Toney – the forward revelled in Brentford’s 4-3-3, claiming a much deserved hat-trick to guide the Bees to a crucial win.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Anthony Taylor (Cheshire) – in a relegation six-pointer that was filled heavily with fouls and VAR calls, the official dealt with it all admirably.
Atmosphere
The Brentford away faithful were in raucous spirits to witness their side win for the first time in over two months.
Verdict
A top class display from Brentford at Carrow Road should give Thomas Frank’s side confidence and belief to pick up a few more important results to move further away from the drop zone.
