A combination of Mark Flekken’s excellence and a misfiring Julio Enciso ensured Brighton’s winless Premier League run extended to six games after being held to a goalless draw by injury-hit Brentford at the Amex.
Enciso, making his first league start under Fabian Hurzeler, struck a post early on, one of eight shots the Paraguay striker had in a first half dominated by the home side.
However, Brentford No 1 Flekken – who has made more saves than any other ‘keeper in the top flight this season – was in inspired form between the posts to keep the scoreline goalless, even after the Dutchman was forced off with a groin problem nine minutes before half-time.
Things got worse for the Bees when a limping Ben Mee then also had to be replaced with 12 minutes to go as their number of walking wounded increased to 12 players, with centre-back the absolute last position manager Thomas Frank could afford an injury to.
But the visitors held firm to end a run of three straight league defeats, picking up just their second league point on the road this campaign, while Brighton’s wait for a top-flight victory stretches back to November 23, when they were fifth, five places below where they are now.
Frank: We now have 11 out!
Brentford boss Thomas Frank speaking to Amazon Prime:
“We never play for one point in any game. Sometimes you need to look into the circumstances. They are a very good team and it was a game of two halves.
“We were really on top but just missed the clear path to create one or two more chances.
“To lose your goalkeeper and now Ben Mee. We now have 11 out so that is perfect!
“Top mentality. Players are ready to come in and contribute.”
