Fulham 3–1 Brentford: Cottagers Claim Derby Bragging Rights

Fulham came from behind to earn back-to-back Premier League wins with a 3-1 victory over West London rivals Brentford at Craven Cottage, moving up to seventh in the table and level on eight points with neighbours Chelsea.

Mikkel Damsgaard had given Brentford an early lead with a sharp finish, but Marco Silva’s side showed resilience to turn the match on its head before half-time. Alex Iwobi equalised with a well-taken strike after combining with Rodrigo Muniz, before turning provider for Harry Wilson, who swept Fulham into a 2-1 lead just before the interval.

The momentum carried into the second half as Ethan Pinnock’s own goal extended Fulham’s advantage to 3-1, effectively ending Brentford’s hopes of a comeback. Muniz thought he had added a fourth, only for VAR to rule it out for a foul on Nathan Collins in the build-up.

The result marks Fulham’s third consecutive league victory over Brentford, only the second time in their history they have managed such a run underlining Silva’s dominance in this particular derby.

For Brentford, it was a night to forget. New manager Keith Andrews saw his side undone by defensive lapses and a lack of cutting edge after a promising start. Despite defeat, there were glimpses of encouragement in Brentford’s play during the opening half-hour, and Bees supporters will be urged to keep faith with Andrews’ project as he looks to stamp his mark on the team.

Fulham, meanwhile, will take confidence from another statement win. With Iwobi and Wilson in fine form, and momentum beginning to build, the Cottagers are showing signs they could challenge the top half of the table this season.