Tarkowski scores as Bees beat Tranmere

By

Brentford 2 Tranmere 0

James Tarkowski scored his first Brentford goal to keep them firmly in the hunt for automatic promotion.

The defender, signed from Oldham in January, headed into the bottom corner from Jake Bidwell’s cross in the second half before Clayton Donaldson nodded home from close range.

Brentford had been frustrated in a goalless first half, with Tarkowski heading against the post just before half-time and Rovers keeper Owain Fon Williams making several fine saves.

The Bees continued to bludgeon the Tranmere goal in the second half and Donaldson also hit the upright with a low effort towards the near post.

With Wolves and Leyton Orient both winning away from home, it was imperative Mark Warburton’s side made it two consecutive home victories and remained hot on the heels of their rivals.

Tarkowski, who continued in place of the injured Harlee Dean, was considered a coup when he joined in the recent transfer window and he produced a superb display.

But his early error almost handed Tranmere the lead when he headed into the path of James Wallace, who poked a shot straight at David Button.

Brentford should have taken an early lead themselves when Will Grigg capitalised on a defensive mistake and fired straight at Williams before the impressive Alan Judge had his subsequent shot cleared off the line.

And Stephen Arthurworrey headed a corner against the crossbar for the visitors before Tarkowski’s effort hit the foot of the post right before interval.

But the young defender was rewarded when he rose unmarked in the box on 62 minutes, and Donaldson couldn’t miss from a yard out after more skillful play from Judge on the left-hand side.

Brentford will also be buoyed by the appearance of Adam Forshaw as a second half substitute after he was forced off in Saturday’s win over Bradford with a back problem.

Brentford (4-3-1-2): Button; McCormack, Craig, Tarkowski, Bidwell; Douglas, Saville (Forshaw 63), Reeves; Judge; Donaldson, Grigg (Trotta 63).
Subs not used: Lee, O’Connor, Dallas, Yennaris, Adams

Follow West London Sport on Twitter
Find us on Facebook