Brentford 1-2 Watford
- Published
Two goals from Odion Ighalo, including an injury-time winner, gave Watford victory over 10-man Brentford.
Defender Jake Bidwell was sent off in the first half, with Brentford taking the lead through an Andre Gray strike.
It could have been worse for Brentford but goalkeeper David Button saved a Troy Deeney penalty in the second half.
Earlier in the day, the home side had said that manager Mark Warburton "will continue to lead the club" after speculation about his position.
Brentford fell to sixth in the table having started in fourth, amid rumours that their manager would be replaced at the end of the season, even if they achieved a remarkable promotion to the Premier League.
On fire Ighalo |
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Watford man Odion Ighalo is on a superb scoring streak having now netted 11 goals in his last seven league games. |
But they played the entire second half a man down as Ighalo's late effort capped a dramatic day on and off the field.
The Brentford fans sang Warburton's name as he emerged from the tunnel and the team celebrated Gray's goal on the touchline with their boss.
Watford started the better side with Button keeping out Ben Watson's deflected strike, and the hosts went down to 10 men on 37 minutes after Bidwell brought down Miguel Layun.
But they took the lead in the second half as Gray smashed home Button's long kick up field.
Button then saved Deeney's spot kick after captain Jonathan Douglas was penalised for handling in the box.
The visitors kept pushing and Ighalo headed in Juan Carlos Parades' cross for the equaliser, before volleying in Matej Vydra's pass to snatch a late winner.
Brentford manager Mark Warburton:
"It's been a difficult day. I was woken up at 6am by the news. I was looking forward to a lie-in.
"But the players have been outstanding. They are a top group and I am thankful for their support.
"Nothing has changed. These players deserve my focus. They have given themselves a really good opportunity. We are still in the top six and it will be a travesty for them not to get something out of this season."
Watford manager Slavisa Jokanovic:
"Ighalo is in good form. The team earned the result over the last 30 minutes but he is putting the ball in the net. It's good news for us.
"Brentford are a good team. At times I could not tell if we had one player more.
"But when they scored we started to play and made many chances. I believe my team deserve the three points."
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