Said Benrahma’s hat-trick helped Championship promotion hopefuls Brentford thrash Hull City in a game that saw calamitous goals scored at both ends of the pitch.
Hull, without star players Jarrod Bowen and Kamil Grosicki following deadline day moves, started well but found themselves behind when Benrahma cut inside and curled into the bottom corner.
It was a goal that completely changed the complexion of the game and the Bees, having taken control, doubled their lead when Hull defender Reece Burke glanced into his own net under no pressure as he attempted to head the ball clear.
The hosts then pulled one back in even more bizarre circumstances, as Ryan Tafazolli’s aimless pass forward from the halfway line drifted towards Brentford goalkeeper David Raya but, instead of easily controlling it, he let the ball slip under his foot and into the net.
However, Ollie Watkins’ downward header, from Rico Henry’s superb cross on the half-volley, and two more slotted finishes from the impressive Benrahma ensured a comfortable Brentford win.
It capped an emotional afternoon for the Algeria forward, who after each goal pointed to the sky in tribute to his late father, who died last week.
The 24-year-old was arguably lucky to still be on the field at that point, though, after replays appeared to show he had caught Hull’s Stephen Kingsley with a stray elbow in a coming together before half-time.
Victory moved Thomas Frank’s side up to fourth, before Fulham play Huddersfield Town at 15:00 GMT.
For much of the contest, Brentford were actually short of their free-flowing best yet were still worthy winners and not flattered by the eventual scoreline.
Hull, meanwhile, appeared to badly miss top scorer Bowen and playmaker Grosicki – although substitute Marcus Maddison did at least show flashes of what he can do following his arrival from Peterborough United on Friday.
The fifth and final Brentford goal, with five minutes remaining, prompted scores of Tigers supporters to pour out of the stadium, with many directing their frustrations towards owner Assem Allam.
