Frank endorses another 'top performance' by Brentford

Delighted Thomas Frank hailed his ruthless Brentford side after a resounding 7-2 home win over Wycombe Wanderers.

It was a surreal score line in an action-packed afternoon at the Brentford Community Stadium, where the visitors caused the Bees significant problems, with a well-taken initial equaliser by Uche Ikpeazu in particular, before eventually running out of steam in the second half.

The unfortunate Chairboys, currently at the foot of the Championship, ended up being severely, if undeservedly, punished. Five goals – including a brace for Ivan Toney – after the break by the west Londoners was the most cruel of consequences for Gareth Ainsworth’s outfit.

Brentford now rise to third place in the table, and both the focus and industry of their play sets them up nicely for the visit of Bristol City in midweek. Confidence is unquestionably rising in this corner of west London.

“We scored seven goals and created many chances and we thought it might go to the 70th minute against a team difficult to play against. I need to give praise to the team for that," said Bees head coach Frank.

“We are unbeaten in 18 games and I’m pleased at a top performance against a team with a different style of play. I am very pleased for him (Toney) and that is important for confidence.”

Frank also noted how well his team revived from being hauled back twice by Wycombe in a surprising first half. But Brentford’s eventual seven goal haul was their first since beating Luton Town last season.

He explained: “In football you need to handle your frustrations well and we did that in the second half. It was another top performance.

"We are in a very good position, no doubt about that. Goal difference means a lot and it could be tight in the Championship.”

Frank will, incidentally, appeal for Brentford’s second goal to be changed from Tariqe Fosu – who appeared to bundle home on the goal line - to Toney. The Bees chief was also quick to express his admiration for Wycombe, despite the emphatic nature of the result.

He said: “I need to praise Wycombe as a club and team and praise Gareth and his staff. They were impressive out there.

"First half was not what I hoped for but I knew it would be very difficult. I wanted us to handle their physicality better but they were very energetic and I have the biggest respect for that.”

Ainsworth, meanwhile, lamented Wycombe’s second half dip – but was full of compliments for in-form Brentford.

“It was a tough second half for us and we lost our concentration,” said the Chairboys manager.

“There were poor decisions by the referee but we did really well in the first half. If you let teams like Brentford get on top of you – they’re a good side – then you will be punished.

"I knew it would be very tough against Brentford. I see them as automatic promotion material. They’ve earned the right to spend a lot of money and they have worked hard. We were better than 7-2 today.

“They have a top manager - I'd love to see him (Frank) manage in the Premier League. They were super today with their finishing.”