Keith Andrews has vowed that Brentford will keep fighting until the last kick of the season to secure a historic European qualification. The Bees currently sit eighth in the Premier League after a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace, with Dango Ouattara's late equaliser proving crucial after defeats for fellow European hopefuls Brighton and Everton.
Brentford travel to Liverpool on the final day knowing that a win should be enough to secure a place in Europe for the first time in the club's history. "We didn't play as well as we have in recent weeks, but we kept going right to the end," said Bees boss Andrews. "It felt like a big goal, and if we'd got a winner it would have felt like a huge goal. The one thing you can guarantee from our team is they give everything. We've had a very special season which could become even more special next weekend."
Match Highlights
Palace, who have the Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano in ten days, took the lead after six minutes when Ismaila Sarr scored a penalty after being brought down by Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. Sarr and Jorgen Strand Larsen both hit the woodwork before Brentford equalised with a fortuitous goal. Defender Jaydee Canvot headed Yehor Yarmoliuk's cross, but the ball struck Ouattara in the face and ricocheted past Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Adam Wharton restored Palace's lead in the second half with his first goal for the club on his 94th appearance. The England World Cup hopeful shifted the ball onto his left foot 20 yards out and fired a low shot that Kelleher seemed to dive over as it crept into the net. Wharton celebrated with a double somersault in front of the Palace fans.
"I didn't celebrate in his way, I'm a bit older than he is," smiled Eagles boss Oliver Glasner. "It was a matter of time for me, he was getting closer and closer. Hopefully one or two will follow this season."
However, Brentford had the last word when Michael Kayode's long throw was flicked on by Sepp van den Berg and dispatched by the tireless Ouattara. "We all feel more was possible," added Glasner. "We're disappointed with the late equaliser, but we gave Brentford too many set plays. Plus we should have decided the game earlier. But the performance for the first 65 minutes was top. This game will help us be in good shape for the last two games and increase our confidence."
