Brentford manager Keith Andrews credited Hull City with the way in which Sergej Jakirovic prepared his side after the disappointment of Fulham the weekend before.
Jakirovic’s men produced a much-needed response on Sunday when the Tigers drew 1-1 with the Bees, and were on course for victory after Oli McBurnie’s first-half penalty, before being pegged back in the second period.
Andrews knew there would be a response from Jakirovic’s side after the woefully poor display at Fulham, and praised the Tigers for the way in which Jakirovic’s men battled.
“That didn’t particularly worry me, really, because we’re the type of team that approaches games in a very honest way and a very respectful way, regardless of who we are playing,” Andrews told Hull Live.
“We’ve prepared as diligently for this game as we did for the game last weekend against Liverpool or the game the previous weekend against Aston Villa. We knew it was coming. I don’t think we dealt with it as well as we could have at times on both sides of the game. How we defended, we were a bit tentative at times, weren’t as aggressive really on occasions as we normally are, but the opposition always plays a part in that as well, they (City) were pretty good on that front.”
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The day marked an emotional first playing return to the MKM Stadium for former academy graduate Keane Lewis-Potter, who left City for West London in a £20m deal a little over four years ago.
Lewis-Potter received warm applause when he departed the action in the second half and after the final whistle. Andrews, himself a former City player, highlighted the importance of the football pyramid in giving players a chance to go through the leagues and work their way to the top.
The Hull-born star drew praise from his manager, who is no stranger to John Egan and Oli McBurnie. Andrews worked with Egan during their time together in the Republic of Ireland setup, while he was with McBurnie at Sheffield United.
“Keano’s (Lewis-Potter) someone that I have a soft spot for. I’m very aware of his journey,” he continued. “I’m a huge fan of the football pyramid, full stop, and the journeys of certain football clubs.
“I’ve worked with a couple of the players before. John Egan, obviously, is the main one for a long stint with the Irish team, and Oli Mack at Sheffield United as well. I’m well aware of Keano’s link to the club and the journey he was on here, which is pretty special, so it’s nice for him to come home. I was here for a year, 20-odd years ago. I don’t think it’s as significant as Keano going back. One of your own.”
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