Watkins strike closes gap to top two

Brentford prevailed over West Bromwich Albion 1-0 at Griffin Park to close the gap to the automatic promotion places to just five points.

The Bees took the lead on 16 minutes through Ollie Watkins. Algerian winger Said Benrahma drove down the right-hand side before squaring to Josh Dasilva, the former Arsenal youngster’s low driven shot was bundled home by Ollie Watkins for his 23rd goal of the season.

Grady Diangana stung the palms of David Raya ten minutes later, the on-loan midfielder one of the Baggies stand-out players this season.

Slavan Milic would have been relieved to see Matheus Pereira get up after a strong challenge, the Brazilian over all set-pieces for the Championship leaders.

Last-ditch defending prevented Christian Norgaard from doubling the lead early in the second half as Brentford looked to close the gap to the top two.

Half-time substitute Kenneth Zohore went closest for West Brom, the Danish striker’s effort crashing back off the crossbar.

Pereira looked their main danger, as is evidenced through his six goals and 16 assists this season. His low effort tested David Raya in the Brentford goal.

Dasilva dragged an effort wide at the other end as Thomas Frank’s men looked to counter at any opportunity.

They were able to defend resiliently until the end however to claim a crucial three points. The gap to the the top two has been narrowed down to five points.