Bournemouth 0 Brentford 1

Playoffs achieved, but promotion not yet certain

A Billy Clarke headed goal is enough to seal the points at Bournemouth as Darren Powell is sent off in peculiar fashion.

Clarke struck late in the first half with a headed goal from a Sam Wood cross - which started out as a shot before the left midfielder slipped.

Brentford dominated the first half with Adam Newton driving over the bar and Alan Bennett failing to slot away a dropped cross. Bournemouth had one good chance - saved by Hamer - with David Hunt throwing himself in the way of the rebound.

Shortly into the second half, after a goalmouth melee, Powell was sent for the pitch for "violent conduct" after a clash with fellow defender Karleigh Osborne - with the pair seperated by Marcus Bean (who was absolutely superb today - a real leader). After some interference from Bournemouth midfielder Hollands, Powell was dismissed for the incident.

A reshuffle followed with Adam Newton (who had played well on the right of midfield) being sacrificed for Mark Phillips.

Brentford then defended like trojans in the intense heat but in truth Bournemouth mustered very few attempts on Hamer's goal.

When the final whistle went, players and supporters alike celebrated wildly - with Andy Scott particularly potty after this hard fought win.

Three points on Saturday - plus a negative result for Exeter or Bury - would see Brentford promoted.

Bees - Hamer, Osborne, Powell, Bennett, Dickson, Newton (Phillips), Bean, Hunt, Wood, S.Williams (Smith), Clarke (B Williams) - unused subs Brown, Pead.

Thanks to Brentford Rivals and beesotted for the match report

April 17, 2009