Brentford 0 West Brom 1 – Player ratings

Sam Johnstone

Made a number of saves, and while the majority of them were routine, a couple were absolutely outstanding. There was one from point-blank range in the first half and another to deny Yoann Barbet scoring a free-kick made even more impressive because he stepped the wrong way first. That's back-to-back clean sheets and back-to-back impressive performances from Johnstone, who looks more comfortable being able to kick it long if necessary. 9/10

Mason Holgate

Kept his flank relatively quiet in the first half but Brentford seemed to have more joy down his wing in the second period. But was part of a backline that kept a clean sheet and he fizzed a couple of dangerous crosses into the box. 7/10

Craig Dawson

Timed his blocks well, and looked much more comfortable than in recent weeks. A gritty performance at the back that led to Albion fans chanting his name at the end. 7/10

Ahmed Hegazi

The big Egyptian kept the dangerous Neal Maupay quiet, and was willing to exchange pleasantries with him too. As well as a consummate defensive performance, he also tested Luke Daniels with a curler. 7/10

Conor Townsend

Looked out of his depth in the first half, when he struggled positionally and lost the ball too much. But was vastly improved after half-time and made two really important covering blocks to deny Brentford. 6/10

Chris Brunt

Sloppy on the ball in the first half, and misplaced too many passes. But improved after the break when he was picking up the second ball well and constantly looking forward. Deservedly kept his place at the base of midfield and led from there once again. 6/10

Kyle Edwards

The surprise name on the teamsheet then delivered the moment of magic that won the game. But there was more to his performance than just his solo goal. Even if he started slightly nervy,, he grew into the game and worried Brentford's defence with his quick feet. Did his defensive duties too, and the fact he was taking corners (and they were usually on the money despite the wind) shows he's got the head for the occasion. The stuff of dreams for the lad from Dudley. 9/10

James Morrison

Freshened up the midfield with a typical all-round central midfielder's performance. When he and Brunt are firing on all cylinders, there is an all-important element of nous to Albion. Should have been back in the team weeks ago. 8/10

Stefan Johansen

Failed to live up to his reputation so far, and there are obvious strengths and weaknesses to his game. With the ball at his feet, he's capable of creating something. But he commits too many fouls and struggles to get tight to his man. Like most of the team, he improved after the break. Hopefully more to come. 5/10

Jay Rodriguez

Barely got a sniff at goal, but a couple of nice flicks sent Albion away, particularly in the second half. Might have helped Townsend out a bit more, particularly in the first half, but it's a lot of hard work running up and down that left wing and he's played every league game this season. 6/10

Dwight Gayle

He needs a goal. It's been six games without one and for Gayle, in the Championship, that is a drought. Slipped at the worst moment when Edwards crossed to him, and then miscued a bouncing ball he should have done better with. Nearly scored a free-kick, but Luke Daniels saved well. You can't fault is endless running into the channels though. Once one goes in, you feel the floodgates might open. 6/10

Substitutes

Hal Robson-Kanu (Edwards 74)

Helped see the game out.

Jake Livermore (Morrison 79)

Beefed up the midfield for the final barrage.

Unused subs: Bond, Bartley, Mears, Barry, Murphy.