Brentford romp to fourth successive win
Bryan Mbeumo’s 15th goal of the season set Brentford on the way to a comprehensive victory that takes them to within two points of second-placed West Bromwich Albion.
A Josh Dasilva strike doubled the half-time lead and Joel Valencia’s long-range effort on 90 minutes wrapped up an impressive fourth consecutive Championship win against an outclassed Reading.
Thomas Frank’s side, who remain third, had already seen off local rivals Fulham and the Baggies in their first two games following the coronavirus outbreak and dominated throughout against the mid-table Royals.
The hosts did not manage a shot on target in the first half, with a long-range Sam Baldock strike that went wide as good as they offered in a bright start.
Mbeumo, on his first appearance since testing positive for Covid-19, headed the Bees ahead from close range from an Ethan Pinnock assist. Mbeumo then had a shot blocked by keeper Rafael Cabral and Said Benrahma also went close as Brentford remained on top.
Dasilva did crash in the second away goal just after the hour on the follow-up after his initial effort was saved by Cabral.
The Bees had further chances to increase their lead and finally did so when substitute Valencia added a spectacular third.
Frank’s men move to 69 points with six games remaining. They are two points behind West Brom having played 40 games – one more than the Baggies.
Subs not used: Daniels, Dervisoglu, Jeanvier, Fosu-Henry, Zamburek, .
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