by Nathan Parker
CARDIFF City battled back from two-goals down to prevent defeat as Neil Harris’ side earned themselves a 2-2 draw against promotion hopefuls Brentford.
The away side came into the match having not won in their last four league games, but goals from Luka Racic and Bryan Mbeumo put the West London club in control early on
City responded quickly though as two headers from Junior Hoilett, and Joe Ralls prevented a third straight loss for the Bluebirds.
Brentford started brightly and were awarded for their early pressure as Emiliano Marcondes’ corner kick failed to be dealt with, as the ball fell to Racic who couldn’t miss from inside the 6-yard area.
Things got worse for City midway through the first half as Mbeumo doubled the Brentford lead with a superbly taken freekick after Dion Sanderson had brought down the dangerous Marcondes.
In a fascinating first half City were given a lifeline as Albert Adomah interlinked well with Joe Ralls and Will Vaulks before the City winger picked out Hoilett with a brilliant cross to half the deficit.
There was still time for one more goal as Vaulks’ long throw into the box caused chaos as captain Sean Morrison flicked the ball onto the head of Ralls who equalised just before the break.
The second half was less exciting, although Joe Bennett had a chance to win the game after Callum Paterson’s cross from the right-hand side found the left back who shot wide when it was easier to score.
An end-to-end affair then ensued as the game neared its completion with a couple of penalty appeals waved away from referee Simon Hooper.
City will now look forward to a visit to Oakwell as they face Barnsely next Saturday afternoon, with Brentford welcoming Sheffield Wednesday.