Five things we learned form Brentford’s 2-1 defeat by Middlesbrough

Possession is nice, but goals are nicer

Post-match analysis of Brentford’s games are all virtually identical. Dominant in possession but never really threatening. Once again, against a very organised side Brentford were happy to pass the ball around at the back without any thrust or adventure in the final third until they went behind. The creative talent they undoubtedly have in their ranks seem to be shackled by the ethos of ‘keep-ball.’

Sometimes a long-ball, turning defenders can be effective.

Emiliano Marcondes and Josh Dasilva look the real deal

After going two goals down Thomas Frank turned to his bench and on came Marcondes and then Dasilva. The former looked sharp, quick, energetic and always looked to go at his man, looking for an end product. It was from his persistence the Bees got a corner from which Alan Judge sparked hope in to Griffin Park.

Dasilva drew a fine save from Darren Randolph in goal and looked a real threat, running from deep with the ball. A tall, strong, gangly and powerful midfielder, he reminds one of Patrick Vieira. Coming from the Arsenal academy, could that be a coincidence?!...Yes. Bees fans would be happy if he turns out to be half the player of the Frenchman.

READ: REPORT-Brentford 1-2 Middlesbrough

McEachran in too deep

'McEachran in the pocket, throws a hail-mary!' The former Chelsea man was so deep he played quarterback. It’s frustrating to see a player with the passing range, and vision of McEachran to be on the outside of the game. At times he looked like the central peg of a back three. He needs to be 20-30 yards further up the pitch, looking for the delicate through balls that he is capable of and not the 50-yard passes to relieve pressure.

READ: Player Ratings from Brentford's defeat

Club Unity

The tragic death of Robert Rowan affected everyone at the club, and for those in attendance at Griffin Park would’ve found it difficult not to be moved by the tribute to the Technical Director. The way in which he was remembered served as how much of a family the club are, a very rare breed in English football.

Prince Pulis does it again

Sometimes it’s not pretty, but boy is it effective! He does it wherever he goes. Tony Pulis sides are always professional, well drilled and difficult to get past. Built on a solid defence their title credentials are pretty strong at the minute, having only conceded nine goals so far this season they will be near the top come May.