Andrews: 'We've Had to Fight Really, Really Hard'

Brentford manager Keith Andrews praised his team's resilience after they held Liverpool to a 1-1 draw in the final match of the 2025-26 Premier League season. The point secured the Bees' top-flight status for another year.

Hard-Fought Point Secures Safety

Brentford entered the game needing just a point to guarantee survival. They delivered a disciplined defensive display, absorbing relentless Liverpool pressure before striking early through Bryan Mbeumo's 14th-minute opener. Mohamed Salah equalised just before half-time, but the Bees held firm in the second half.

Andrews said post-match: 'We've had to fight really, really hard all season. Today epitomised that. The lads gave everything against a world-class side. I couldn't be prouder.' The result means Brentford finish 16th, four points clear of the relegation zone.

Defensive Solidity Under the Spotlight

Brentford's organisation was crucial. They defended deep, with a compact 5-3-2 shape, limiting Liverpool to mostly long-range efforts. The centre-back pairing of Ben Mee and Ethan Pinnock made 12 clearances and five blocks combined. Goalkeeper Mark Flekken saved three shots on target, including a 78th-minute Diogo Jota header.

Statistically, Liverpool dominated possession (68%) and had 22 shots, but only four on target. Brentford's expected goals (xG) of 0.6 highlights their efficiency: they scored from their only shot on target in the first half.

Brentford had lost three of their previous five games, but this draw extended their unbeaten streak at home to three matches. The Bees have now secured safety in back-to-back top-flight seasons for the first time.

Impact on Liverpool's Farewells and Title Race

For Liverpool, the draw meant they finished third, behind champions Arsenal and runners-up Manchester City. The result also marked the final appearances for departing legends Salah and Andy Robertson, who waved an emotional goodbye to the away end.

  • Brentford's survival guarantees them at least £100 million in Premier League TV revenue for 2026-27.
  • Liverpool missed the chance to equal their points tally from last season, though they secured a Champions League spot.
  • The Bees' defensive resilience bodes well for next season under Andrews, who has signed a new two-year contract.

What's Next for Both Sides

Brentford now face a summer rebuild. With key loanee Mbeumo's permanent signing expected, Andrews will look to strengthen the midfield. Liverpool, meanwhile, enter a new era without Salah and Robertson, with Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz expected to lead the attack next season. Pre-season begins in July.

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