Brentford midfielder Alex Pritchard grabbed the only goal of the game as Leeds’ mini revival came to an end at Elland Road.
The home side who had won their last came coming to this one were no doubt looking to maintain their unbeaten run of late. Although still in deep relegation trouble, those wins have potentially eased a little bit of pressure on manager Neil Redfearn. The Whites included Billy Sharpe for this one, with Mirko Antentunucci starting on the bench. New signing Sol Bamba continues in defence.
As for the visitors who are managed by former stockbroker Mark Warburton. The 53 year old who maintained Uwe Rosler’s good work at Griffin Park is also overseeing an impressive season this year as well. The Bees started with prolific front man Andre Gray and the always reliable Alex Pritchard. On loan Arsenal midfielder Jon Toral is on the bench.
Leeds who knew they needed something from this match to ensure they could take advantage from this match, started brightly. The Yorkshire side had a very strong appeal for a penalty turned down just before half time, captain Rudy Austin stumbled after a shove by Moses Odubajo – but the referee wasn’t having any of it as he waved play on.
The hosts gave a spirited performance especially in the first half as Brentford struggled to get a foothold in the game.
The visitors who were not at their best in the first half and might have been lucky to have not been trailing, went on to the take the lead when yet another Leeds appeal was turned down. Billy Sharp had another Leeds penalty turned down – but to rob further salt in the wounds, Brentford would score soon after that rejected penalty appeal.
Alex Pritchard turned home an Odubajo cross to give the visitors the lead. Leeds who felt hard done by the refereeing throughout the whole game rallied, Billy Sharp fired just wide. Jon Toral could have sealed the win – but the visitors Brentford held on for a crucial three points.
This defeat for Leeds sees them still very deep in relegation trouble, thankfully for for the Yorkshire side the teams that are directly around also lost. I guess this week wasn’t the worst week to lose – but the mindset of those Leeds players is to win every week no doubt. Unfortunately for Leeds the off field issues are hardly helping.
Brentford with this win maintain their play off push and are now above Ipswich into fourth. It’s been a great season for The Bees and it would be even greater if they could get promoted.
The Bearded Captain 