By:
Graeme Hanna
Keith Andrews gave his full backing to ‘sensational’ Caoimhin Kelleher after the goalkeeper made a fatal mistake in the 2-0 defeat at Chelsea.
Brentford pressured their hosts for large spells of the game, but failed to take their chances and Chelsea took full advantage.
Liam Rosenior was delighted to pick up three points in his first Premier League game as Chelsea head coach, but his team were made to work for it.
Joao Pedro broke the deadlock in the first half and it wasn’t until the second half incident that the game was put beyond doubt.
Kelleher’s compatriot Nathan Collins played a pass along the box, giving the keeper work to do, but a bad first touch let in Liam Delap and the striker was brought down as they collided.
Collins scrambled back to clear the ball, but the referee pointed to the penalty spot.
Cole Palmer stepped up to send Kelleher the wrong way. 2-0. Game over.
Kelleher has been sensational
It was tough on the keeper, as Collins’ pass could have been better, but Keith Andrews leapt to his defence, pointing out how important he has been for the Bees this season, with his commanding performances being a key factor in their rise up the table.
Before Chelsea, Caoimhin Kelleher had a 67% penalty save rate, but Palmer’s effort changes that stat.
“He’s been sensational all season long. That’s just one of those things, and I’m okay with that, said Andrews.
“We want our goalkeeper to play with personality and courage, like all of our players,
“All the outfield players make mistakes. Caoimhin’s made one today.”
The result meant Chelsea went above Brentford in the table, one point ahead in sixth and seventh place, respectively.
Keith Andrews’ Brentford took the game to Chelsea
The 2-0 scoreline did not reflect the story of the game.
A glance at the stats shows how Brentford will be disappointed not to take anything from their visit to Stamford Bridge.
They recorded 15 shots with five on target and an xG of 1.52.
In comparison, Chelsea managed just six shots, with two on target and an xG of 1.59.
Apart from the goals, Kelleher wasn’t required to make a single save, although Alejandro Garnacho missed a sitter from point-blank range, while Robert Sanchez made six saves and was a top performer on the day for the Blues.
It was one of those days for Brentford and Andrews, but they are clearly moving in the right direction.
The defeat was their first in the Premier League over the last six games, with four wins in that period.
Next up for the Bees is a home fixture against Nottingham Forest on Sunday.
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