Brighton 0-0 Brentford: Julio Enciso's missed opportunities lead to scoreless draw at the Amex

Despite Mark Flekken's brilliant performance in goal, Brighton's winless streak in the Premier League continued as they were unable to secure a victory against a depleted Brentford side. Julio Enciso's inability to find the back of the net proved costly for Brighton, as they were forced to settle for a frustrating goalless draw at the Amex Stadium.

Enciso, making his first league start under Fabian Hurzeler, struck a post early on, one of eight shots the Paraguay striker had in a first half dominated by the home side.

However, Brentford No 1 Flekken - who has made more saves than any other 'keeper in the top flight this season - was in inspired form between the posts to keep the scoreline goalless, even after the Dutchman was forced off with a groin problem nine minutes before half-time.

Thomas Frank was unhappy Brighton forward Joao Pedro was not sent off with a quarter of an hour to go after lashing out, but not making contact with a swinging elbow with Yehor Yarmoliuk.

"I think it was a red card," said the Brentford manager. "You can't swing your arm like that. Hit or no hit, it is a red card."

And things got worse for the Bees when a limping Ben Mee then also had to be replaced with 12 minutes to go as their number of walking wounded increased to 12 players, with centre-back the absolute last position Frank could afford an injury to.

But the visitors held firm to end a run of three straight league defeats, picking up just their second league point on the road this campaign, while Brighton's wait for a top-flight victory stretches back to November 23, when they were fifth, five places below where they are now.

What the managers said...

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler speaking to Amazon Prime:

"Very disappointed feeling and not a great atmosphere. It is our fault and we need to learn how to win these games.

"It's about sticking together and finding the right solutions. It is important to stay positive. We created a lot of chances, and they wanted to score. Good phases but not a good 90 minutes. This is a business where you need to get results.

"The last six games, all of them were quite similar. We deserved much more."

Brentford boss Thomas Frank speaking to Amazon Prime:

"We never play for one point in any game. Sometimes you need to look into 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 now have 11 out so that is perfect!

"Top mentality. Players are ready to come in and contribute."

Story of the match in stats...

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