Memories of last year’s slow start have now faded, as Brentford have even picked up points in what were expected to be two of the toughest away trips of the season - Stoke and Villa. Saturday’s trip to Ewood Park is an opportunity to lay down a marker: Brentford are aiming high this season, and Dean Smith’s approach is paying dividends.

Both teams approach the game looking to defend unbeaten records, with Blackburn doing well to avoid defeat on Wednesday night, coming from two goals behind to snatch a home draw against Reading. Two points currently separate the sides but this weekend we feel the Bees are looking to flush Villa’s 95th minute equaliser out of memory with three points. Kodjia’s header looped beyond Bentley in slow motion, and sunk our hearts as it fell into the net.

Neal Maupay was superb once more, and his desire and hunger showed for the full match, while Ollie Watkins was voted man of the match. He created two of the Bees’ best chances and assisted Maupay’s first as he continued his bright start to the season. His form is earning him deserved recognition, and whether he plays down the wing, as a number 10 or up-front means little: His effort, energy and skill make him impossible to handle at times. We’re backing him to score first at odds of 13/2.

The last time these two were paired in the Championship was the 2016/17 season, with Blackburn doing the double over the Bees, earning 3-2 and 3-1 wins. With Brentford having only conceded four goals all season so far, conceding three this weekend seems unlikely and under 1.5 goals all game is priced at 14/5.

Leo’s Prediction: Blackburn 0-1 Brentford, with Ollie Watkins to score priced at 28/1.

Leo’s Top Tip: As Brentford continue to impress, the odds on the Bees lifting the Championship title continue to fall but at LeoVegas SPORT we are still offering an industry leading 7/1 on Dean Smith’s men winning the league!