The Bees took a well deserved point from a 1-1 draw away to Wigan Athletic on Saturday.

Wigan, listed as one of the favourites to push for a promotion spot, were up against outsiders Brentford. But it was the Bees who looked the more likely contenders during the first half.

In all departments they were getting the better of their more costly opponents, except for their finishing.

It is there where the Bees need to improve their performance and thus make more of their superior quality elsewhere.

The Bees paraded newcomer Jason Price on the right side of midfield, with Gavin Mahon in a more central position. The left back position was filled by Ijah Anderson who made a very welcome return to the senior team for the first time since limping off injured almost exactly a year ago. Up front, youngster Kevin O'Connor partnered Lloyd Owusu, and put in a hard running display, which did him no discredit.

The Bees saw plenty of the ball and were inspired by the excellent Paul Evans.

At the other end, Gottskalksson had little to do early on with the defence in front of him more than capably marshalled by Darren Powell.

Three minutes into time added on at the end of the first half, Paul Evans whipped in a free kick which Ingimarsson connected with. And as others looked to try and get a touch, the ball bounced high into the net.

On a very slippery surface, the second half opened with a chance for the hosts. Ingimarsson slipped as he looked to clear which allowed Liddell the chance to run clear at goal. But Gottskalksson was there to make a fine point blank save.

Wigan were having a bit more play although they looked unlikely to break down the Bees rearguard with Michael Dobson outstanding.

But midway through the half, Lee McCulloch was brought on to replace Ashcroft and he immediately saw the action when he was there to connect with the ball and guide it home.

But it was the Bees who went closest to snatching the three points five minutes before the final whistle. Dobson flicked on a cross but the keeper pushed it over the bar.

All in all, a good result, and one which can be built on the for the first home match of the season against Port Vale on Saturday (August 18).

Bees: Gottskalksson, Dobson, Powell, Ingimarsson, Anderson, Price, Evans, Mahon, Gibbs, Owusu, OConnor (Partridge 89). subs unused: P Smith, Williams, Hunt, Theobald.

Attendance: 5,952