Schlupp Denies Ref Victory

Notts County 1 - Brentford 1

It was honours even on Bank Holiday Monday as Brentford drew 1-1 at Notts County

Martin Allen's County did little to threaten Simon Moore in the Bees goal until late in the game when the referee inexplicably gave a handball against Karleigh Osborne (Osborne was later treated in hospital for concussion).

Fortunately Simon Moore saved Westcarr's spot kick, but five minutes later County had another chance from the spot when Robbie Simpson was also adjudged to have handled. This decision looked less controversial although Simmo was adamant that the ball hit his shoulder. Ex lag Lee Hughes fired home to put the home side ahead.

Fortunately justice prevailed when substitute Jeffrey Schlupp levelled in injury time.

Brentford admittedly didn't create too many of their own chances although Lewis Grabban created a couple of opportunities in the first half. A loss, however, would have been harsh on the Bees who played the better football overall.

Bees manager Nicky Forster commented after the game 'It was a test of character after a wrong decision changed the whole manner of the game.... to raise ourselves and score an equaliser was a credit to the boys.'

Brentford were only able to field six substitutes (including rookie Reeves) as injuries took their toll on Forster's squad. They remain in 10th position in League One.

Bees - Moore, Kev, Karleigh (Spillane), Neilson, Wood, Weston, Dave, Bean, Saunders, Grabban (Schlupp), Simpson

Unused Bees - Royce, Reeves, Reed, Byrne

With thanks to beesotted for their match report

April 26, 2011