A combination of Mark Flek's excellence and a failed Julio Enciso saw Brighton's winless Premier League run extended to six games after being held to a goalless draw at the Amex by injury hit Brentford.
Enciso, making his first league start under Fabian Hurzeler, hit a post early on, one of eight shots made by the Paraguayan striker in a first half dominated by the home side.
However, Brentford No 1 Fleken – who has made more saves than any other goalkeeper in the top flight this season – was in inspired form between the posts to keep the scoreline goalless even after the Dutchman had to leave for nine minutes due to a groin injury . before halftime.
Things got even worse for the Bees when a limping Ben Mee then also had to be replaced with 12 minutes remaining as their number of injured players increased to 12 players, with centre-back the absolute last position manager Thomas Frank could afford an injury to .
But the visitors held on to end a run of three straight league defeats, taking just their second league point of the season, while Brighton's wait for a top-flight win stretches back to November 23, when they finished fifth, down five places. below where they are now.
Frank: We now have 11!
Brentford boss Thomas Frank speaks to Amazon Prime:
“We never play for one point in any game. Sometimes you have to look at the circumstances. They are a very good team and it was a game of two halves.”
“We were really on top, but just missed the clear path to create one or two more chances.
“To lose your goalkeeper and now Ben Mee. We have 11 away now, so that's perfect!
“Top mentality. Players are ready to step in and contribute.”
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