Brentford boss Thomas Frank lamented his side’s inability to grind out points after they suffered a disappointing defeat at Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Lewis Grabban and Molla Wague’s strikes were enough to put away the Bees in a game that the visitors dominated, despite the home side missing a penalty.

Sergi Canos’ late strike set up a tense finish but Martin O’Neill’s team held on to revive their play-off hopes and consign Brentford to their first defeat in 11 games.

Frank said Brentford must develop the ability to win when not at the top of their game, saying: “We need to learn about the errors in our game to stay in it for as long as we can. 

“We created enough chances to get a 2-2. Both teams had a lot of chances but we dominated more. 

“I think, in this recent run, we have been seeing some outstanding performances. Not in all of our games, but some of the performances have been really up there.

“The next step for the team is to ensure that, not on a bad day, but on an average day, you still need to find a way to play more cleverly and more solidly, and get something from the game.

“We need to learn to take a point or even win when we have an average day.”

Canos was more positive about his side’s spirit and ability to fight till the very end.

“You can see the desire and mentality of everyone and it was unlucky, but we go again,” said the 22-year-old Spaniard.

Grabban missed a penalty after opening the scoring but substitute Wague nodded home on his debut to secure the three points.

The Bees host Aston Villa on Wednesday in what will be former manager Dean Smith’s first trip back to Griffin Park.

Frank commented: “We’ve been texting and speaking with each other, so I’ll welcome him back.

“Now he’s at Villa and I wish them all the best – not on Wednesday, but after Wednesday!

“I’m glad that we can go out, live on Sky, at home at Griffin Park and get back to our normal level.

“We’ve been really good at Griffin Park this year, so hopefully we can continue that.”