Brentford’s Development Squad slipped to defeat in their latest U21 Professional Development League Two South match against Charlton Athletic at Jersey Road on Monday afternoon.
The Bees welcomed back Maxime Colin and Josh McEachran from injury. Jota was a late withdrawal from the starting eleven due to illness. The game was played in blustery and inclement conditions, which ensured the quality of football on display was reduced.
Charlton took the lead from a spectacular overhead kick from Frank Moussa in the 19th minute. Brentford nearly equalised in the 28th minute but Herson Rodrigues Alves’ shot was cleared off the line by Josh Staunton.
Chances were limited from both sides, but The Addicks threatened to double their lead in the 33rd minute but El-Hadji Ba’s header went over the bar.
In the second half, Charlton went two ahead after Holldack’s misplaced pass was intercepted by Zakaya Bergdich, who sped forward and played the ball into the Brentford box; after touches by Karlan Ahearne-Grant and Frank Moussa, Josh Umerah slotted home.
The two goal advantage would only last sixty seconds as Colin rifled home from inside the box. Courtney Senior and Daniel O’Shaugnessy went close to salvaging a point for Brentford but Charlton held on for the victory.
Brentford: Nik Tzanev; Maxime Colin (sub Audrius Laucys 68 mins), Tom Field, Josh McEachran, Seth Owens, Daniel O’Shaugnessy, Courtney Senior, Bradley Clayton (sub Reece Cole 58 mins), Jan Holldack, Montell Moore, Herson Rodrigues Alves (sub Gradi Milenge 78 mins)
Subs (not used): Seika Jatta and Cameron Greaves
Charlton Athletic: Nick Pope; Aaron Barnes; Archie Edwards; El-Hadji Ba (sub Alex Kelly 65 mins); Josh Staunton; Harry Lennon; Regan Charles-Cook; Karlan Ahearne-Grant; Josh Umerah; Frank Moussa (sub Terrell Thomas 80 mins); Zakarya Bergdich (sub Joe Aribo 65 mins)
Subs (not used): Ashley Maynard-Brewer and Brandon Hanlan