West Ham’s fight for Premier League survival suffered a setback as Brentford claimed a convincing win to revive their hopes of European qualification.
The Hammers knew a victory would increase the pressure on relegation rivals Tottenham, but instead they were undone by a combination of defensive errors and clinical finishing, leaving them just two points above the drop zone.
Brentford, meanwhile, climbed to sixth place.
The hosts took the lead in fortunate fashion when Konstantinos Mavropanos inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear.
West Ham responded with attacking intent, hitting the woodwork twice through Valentin Castellanos, while a disallowed goal and several near misses highlighted their frustration in front of goal.
Despite West Ham’s chances, Brentford doubled their advantage from the penalty spot after El Hadji Malick Diouf brought down Dango Ouattara.
Igor Thiago converted calmly for his 26th goal of the season.
The visitors continued to push but could not find a breakthrough, and Brentford sealed the result late on when Mikkel Damsgaard slotted home a third.
While West Ham showed promise going forward, their defensive lapses proved costly.
The own goal, a reckless challenge for the penalty, and general lack of composure at the back ultimately left them chasing the game.
They created enough chances to score, but poor finishing and bad luck - including multiple efforts hitting the woodwork - denied them a way back.
Brentford’s victory keeps them firmly in the race for European football.
After a dip in home form, this result provides a timely boost as the season approaches its climax.
With opportunities still ahead, the Bees will believe they can secure a place in Europe - and potentially even push for a Champions League spot depending on how results elsewhere unfold.
