Leeds and Brentford played out a stalemate to end the stalemate, with both teams picking up points and a memorable 0-0 draw.
Leeds had a chance to advance to six points clear of the table as they face their relegation rivals on Sunday, but they never played with enough risks to trouble equally stubborn Brentford. They are four points behind 18th place West Ham.
It was also a missed opportunity for the Bees, who, despite losing to both Liverpool and Chelsea earlier on Saturday, looked quite happy with the point, which leaves them in seventh place, three points behind Liverpool.
Their expected goals total of 1.00 was the fourth lowest in a Premier League match this season, as Leeds failed to score a goal for the fourth straight game.
The home side had plenty of possession but struggled to break down Brentford’s disciplined 3-5-2 formation. Apart from Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s loop-back header being cleared by Michael Cayode midway through the first half, there was nothing to worry the Brentford defense.
Brentford midfielder Matthias Jensen was only able to find the side-netting when he darted inside the penalty area at the start of the second period. It was one of only two shots the team made after the break.
Leeds’ late gasps had little effect, and on Sunday Tottenham play Forest at home and West Ham play Aston Villa, both games will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, so you’ll be watching with your shoulders down.
A forgotten game.
Falke: We’re not dancing on the table with a draw.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke told Sky Sports:
“We’re not dancing on the table after a draw, that’s for sure. But compliments to the players. Today you can see why Brentford are seventh[in the table]a very established Premier League team, solid at the back of the table. There aren’t many teams that can withstand our physicality. They also have attacking quality. It was a complicated game, but it was important not to get hit on the counter-attack and lose a game like that.”
“Also, we haven’t conceded three games in a row, which is very important. We are not a team that cuts through opponents with individual quality. We have to be honest, so we bring flexibility, physicality and tactical flexibility. There’s a bit of a lack of instinct. But to Brentford’s credit, they defended well. Overall this is how they behave in a relegation battle. It’s a small step forward. ”
Andrews full of pride
Brentford manager Keith Andrews told Sky Sports:
“My feeling is really immeasurable pride. We had to dig deep. We knew we had to perform with a certain level of grit and mentality. When the game went up and down, we were really good. Obviously our bench was light and our players are going to have to go far in the game, but we dug in incredibly well.”
“There were some things we could have done better, the last run, the last pass. It disrupted our preparation for this game, but our players worked incredibly well. They’re a phenomenal group and I’m proud to be their head coach.”
