MAGPIE MUSCLE
Bench boys rescue Benitez after injuries strike squad
were unlucky not to go into the break on level terms, as Karl Darlow produced a string of fine saves to deny Vibe three times.
But six minutes after the restart Brentford got the equaliser when Vibe slotted home from close range after Darlow blocked Andreas Bjelland’s shot.
Vibe almost got a second when he sprinted clear and chipped over the onrushing Darlow only to see his effort come back off the post, before Murphy rose highest to meet Perez’s cross and put Newcastle ahead on 78 minutes.
Brentford piled on the pressure and had a late penalty appeal turned down, before Jota’s fierce effort was well saved by Darlow deep into injury time.
Scott Hogan, returning from injury and an apparent transfer target for West Ham, remained an unused substitute with manager Dean Smith explaining his actions.
“I made a decision on Thursday not to start Scott,” he said. “There’s been a lot of speculation and offers for Scott and it’s been very difficult for him. He was available for selection but I decid Brentford ed not to select him in the longterm interest of the football club which have always got to be at the forefront of my mind
“I didn’t think it was right to start him and as the game went on I also didn’t think it was right to bring him on.
“I’m disappointed with the result but proud of the performance. We were unfortunate not to win, let alone get a point.
“To play against a team like Newcastle with the players and resources they have and to be the better team gives a lot of credit to our players.”