Hull City 1-5 Brentford: Said Benrahma scores hat-trick as Bees win
- Published
Said Benrahma paid a personal tribute to his late father after his three goals
Said Benrahma's hat-trick helped Championship promotion hopefuls Brentford thrash Hull City in a game that saw calamitous goals scored at both ends of the pitch.
Hull, without star players Jarrod Bowen and Kamil Grosicki following deadline day moves, started well but found themselves behind when Benrahma cut inside and curled into the bottom corner.
It was a goal that completely changed the complexion of the game and the Bees, having taken control, doubled their lead when Hull defender Reece Burke glanced into his own net under no pressure as he attempted to head the ball clear.
The hosts then pulled one back in even more bizarre circumstances, as Ryan Tafazolli's aimless pass forward from the halfway line drifted towards Brentford goalkeeper David Raya but, instead of easily controlling it, he let the ball slip under his foot and into the net.
However, Ollie Watkins' downward header, from Rico Henry's superb cross on the half-volley, and two more slotted finishes from the impressive Benrahma ensured a comfortable Brentford win.
It capped an emotional afternoon for the Algeria forward, who after each goal pointed to the sky in tribute to his late father, who died last week.
The 24-year-old was arguably lucky to still be on the field at that point, though, after replays appeared to show he had caught Hull's Stephen Kingsley with a stray elbow in a coming together before half-time.
Victory kept Thomas Frank's side fifth in the table, but they are now just five points off the automatic promotion places after Leeds United were beaten at home by Wigan Athletic.
For much of the contest, Brentford were actually short of their free-flowing best yet were still worthy winners and not flattered by the eventual scoreline.
Hull, meanwhile, appeared to badly miss top scorer Bowen and playmaker Grosicki - although substitute Marcus Maddison did at least show flashes of what he can do following his arrival from Peterborough United on Friday.
The fifth and final Brentford goal, with five minutes remaining, prompted scores of Tigers supporters to pour out of the stadium, with many directing their frustrations towards owner Assem Allam.
Burke's headed own goal, under no pressure whatsoever, put Brentford 2-0 up...
Before Raya's inexplicable error eight minutes later gave Hull hope
Ollie Watkins scored his 19th goal of the season to put Brentford 3-1 in front
Hull boss Grant McCann: "It just felt really flat, even when we arrived at the stadium.
"We didn't start the greatest and then got back into the game with a big bit of fortune.
"We started brightly in the second half but the game was gone once they scored a third goal.
"This is probably the first time this season we've been totally outclassed. We were masters of our own downfall, but Brentford were top class."
Brentford head coach Thomas Frank: "We all know it's very difficult when people lose a loved one. We gave him (Benrahma) all the time off that he needed to get his head in the right place.
"It was a very nice tribute for his father. He's had some emotional days but he said he wanted to play for his Dad and do the best he can.
"He was magnificent in his actions, his touches and of course scoring three goals. It was a fantastic performance from him.
"It was a very good performance - especially in the final third. We had great fluidity up front and I was very pleased with our structure and discipline."