Toney is a record breaker
Bristol City 1 Brentford 3
THOMAS FRANK revealed that Ivan Toney beat the clock to become the highest scorer ever in a Championship season.
The striker broke the record with his 31st goal of the campaign and was substituted eight minutes later.
And Bees boss Frank made it clear that the change would have happened – with the play-offs in mind – even if Toney had not scored.
Frank said: “It was always the plan to replace Ivan at that time and he knew that before the game.
“I’m so delighted that he did break the record because he is humble with his talent and deserves all the success he gets.”
Toney (below) pounced on a loose ball inside the box to round goalkeeper Dan Bentley and shoot his dominant side in front with 57 minutes played.
Bryan Mbeumo doubled the advantage by firing into the roof of the net on 78 minutes at the end of a brilliant move.
And, five minutes later, Sergi Canos shot home at the far post to send Brentford into the play-offs on a high.
Bristol City sub Louis Britton marked his debut by netting with a low drive three minutes from time.
Frank added: “Whatever happens from now on, it has been another outstanding season for the players.”
Robins boss Nigel Pearson is still seeking his first home win as manager after seven attempts.
He said: “It has been a season of two contrasting halves for the club because it began with promise, but we have had too many injuries and fitness is something we need to address.” BRISTOL CITY: Bentley 7, Simpson 6 (Sessegnon 72, 6), Baker 7, Mariappa 6 (Vyner 52, 6), Dasliva 6, Massengo 5, Bakinson 5, Palmer 5 (Janneh 65, 6), Scott 5, Wells 5 (Edwards 65, 6), Conway 5 (Britton 72).
BRENTFORD: Raya 7, Norgaard 7, Jansson 7, Pinnock 6 (Sorensen 46, 6), Rasmussen 7, Jensen 7, Janelt 7 (Bidstrup 81), Canos 8, Fosu-Henry 7 (Marcondes 72), Toney 8 (Mbeuno 65, 7), Forss 7 (Ghoddos 65, 6) .
MAN OF THE MATCH: Ivan Toney. Another poacher’s goal for the prolific striker.
REFEREE: James Linington 8.