Manchester United’s hopes of building momentum in the Premier League were dashed on Saturday as they slumped to a 3-1 defeat at Brentford, extending their winless away run to eight matches.

United entered the clash buoyed by their midweek victory over Chelsea but were undone by defensive frailties and wasted opportunities in west London.

Brentford raced into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes, courtesy of Igor Thiago’s double. The forward first smashed in a clinical finish from Jordan Henderson’s long pass before reacting quickly to bury a rebound after Altay Bayindir’s save.

The visitors briefly responded as Benjamin Sesko bundled home his first goal for United at the third attempt following a scramble in the box. Hopes of a comeback grew when Nathan Collins fouled Bryan Mbeumo to gift Erik ten Hag’s side a penalty.

However, Bruno Fernandes, who had already missed from the spot earlier in the season, saw his effort brilliantly saved by Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, renowned for his penalty-stopping record.

Substitute Mathias Jensen sealed the win in injury time, finishing a counter-attack as Brentford fans taunted Ten Hag with chants of “you’re getting sacked in the morning.”

The defeat leaves United searching for answers, with their away struggles and lack of cutting edge once again under the spotlight.

Faridah Abdulkadiri 

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