James Tarkowski hailed Brentford’s 3-1 win over Notts County as a “very good” result.
The Bees were dominant at Griffin Park yesterday afternoon.
They went ahead when Adam Forshaw converted a penalty and Notts County defender Haydn Hollis was sent off for bringing down Clayton Donaldson for the kick to be awarded.
Alan Judge scored two more either side of half time to seal the win, despite a late County goal.
James, speaking to Bees Player after the match, said the win would push Brentford on again after a run of three away games in a week that saw them take two points without scoring a goal.
“It is a very positive reaction in the dressing room,” said James.
“A 3-1 win is good for us.
“We are disappointed to concede the goal but we have come here after a tough week away where we didn't really get the results we wanted and three points can push us on again.
“When a team goes down to ten men it suits us.
“We can keep the ball, move it, tire them out and get the goals we need.”
James said Notts County caused The Bees problems early on.
The visitors played up to strikers James Spencer and Ronan Murray, although the latter was withdrawn after the red card, and looked to attack from there.
James said The Bees got to grips with that and then, with a man advantage, took control.
He said Brentford mixed it up a little, playing longer to stretch the pitch at times.
“Notts County play to their strengths,” said the defender.
“The lad up front did well for them.
“They struggled with ten but caused us problems early on.
“Once they go down to ten we can keep the ball and get the goals.
“As a defender you have to concentrate.
“You have to keep your concentration; if we keep the ball it is easier for us.
“We look to get on the ball but sometimes we are looking to get in behind teams now and stretch the pitch as they sit off us.
“We are making chances either by going direct or keeping the ball.”
James was taken off with the score at 3-0.
It meant he has played seven Brentford games and has not been on the pitch when The Bees have conceded.
He missed two games last month after being sent off at Leyton Orient and said he knew he could not afford to make mistakes and lose his place as it would be hard to get it back.
“I am there to defend and not conceding a goal so far is good,” he said.
“We have been solid as a back four.
“Teams get chances but we haven’t conceded too many opportunities.
“There are three or four centre halves here looking for two spots.
“I have been fortunate to play so far but I know I have to keep my performance levels high otherwise there are players ready to take my place.
“I am on nine bookings and am one away from getting banned.
“I know I can’t make a mistake.
“Competition for places is good; it keeps you on your toes.
“The red card was disappointing, on TV, against Leyton Orient.
“The lads played well, kept a clean sheet and pulled me out of it.
“Since then I have been pleased with the way I have been playing.”
James said there was no nervousness in the camp before the game.
He said Brentford’s three away games – against Rotherham, United, Oldham Athletic and Sheffield United – had been tough.
“There wasn’t any nervousness before today,” said James.
“We performed very well at Sheffield on Tuesday buy didn’t get the goals.
“They are tough away games – Rotherham are up there, Oldham are fighting relegation and have done well in recent weeks and Sheffield United in good form.
“They weren’t the results we needed but we weren’t too down, as you could see today as we came out and performed.”
Brentford are second in Sky Bet League One with six games remaining.
They are six points ahead of nearest challengers Rotherham United, who also have six to play.
Brentford’s next game is at home to Crawley Town on Tuesday and James said he was relishing the challenge.
“Every game is big,” said the central defender.
“There are six left and if we can get three or four wins we will be going up.
“We need to stay concentrated and win games.
“I am relishing this.
“There is no better environment to play in.
“Hopefully we can push on for the promotion.”
A full video interview with James Tarkowski is available here for Bees Player subscribers.