Iraola says performance levels must not drop ahead of Brentford clash

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Andoni Iraola takes training. Photo Credit: Getty Images

AFC Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola says his side must not let performance levels drop after an impressive victory against Manchester City last week.

The Cherries ended City’s 33 game unbeaten run with a 2-1 victory on Saturday, goals from Antoine Semenyo and Evanilson helping Iraola’s side claim a famous win.

Bournemouth come up against a Brentford side, who last out in the league surrendered a 1-0 lead in second half stoppage time, conceding two goals in five minutes.

The Cherries failed to beat Brentford last season, only claiming one point against Thomas Frank’s side.

Iraola stated the importance of his side’s performance levels for the game, in order for them to claim all three points.

He said: “It’s important how you react, a lot of people expect us to drop performance.

“I hope we don’t, because we go to a difficult place. They’re a difficult team to beat; they’re a super competitive team.

“We need the same grit, same intensity. If we’re not at the same level as we have been, they’re going to punish us.”

Brentford have become known for starting games well, having gone three games in a row scoring the first goal inside the opening minute.

The Bournemouth boss knows his side must stay vigilant, defensively and offensively, for the full 90 minutes.

Iraola said: “I think the game will be open all the time.

“There will be chances for both teams, we have to be focused because things can change quickly against this opposition.”

Iraola revealed that goalkeeper Kepa will be back available for the trip to West London, after two weeks out with injury.

The Cherries boss admitted it will be a tough decision picking between the returning Spaniard and Mark Travers, who has performed well in Kepa’s absence.

Iraola said: “Every week I have difficult decisions to make.

“Whoever I put in tomorrow doesn’t mean they don’t play the next one, we’ll take it game by game.”

Iraola added that wingers Dango Ouattara and Luis Sinisterra are not available due to injury.

“Dango is doing well, but it’s too early for him. It’s safer to leave him to recover.

“Sini (Luis Sinisterra) has had a small setback, so he’ll probably take more time than Dango.”

The Cherries have failed to win in all their previous four visits to the Gtech Community Stadium.

A win on Saturday would make it four games unbeaten for Iraola’s side.

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