Touted as potential top six candidates, Brentford have suffered a nightmare start to the new Championship season.

Just one point from a possible nine has seen the Bees stutter in the early stages, and the defensive frailties of last season which many had hoped had been fixed are plain and clear for all to see.

The Bees entertained Bristol City last night, and were thwarted by a 98th minute equaliser despite dominating the game from start to finish.

Manager Dean Smith claimed that his side would be in the top six if they played like they did every week, but the west London outfit will surely struggle to reach the playoffs if they continue to concede at the alarming rate they have.

Seven goals in three goals is a painful stat for the Bees back line to look at, and this leakiness must be addressed ahead of Saturday’s trip to high flying Ipswich Town.

At the other end of the field, Brentford must be more clinical.

Striker Lasse Vibe looks out of sorts, and must be replaced by 21-year-old Neal Maupay at the weekend, who came off the bench to give the Bees a lead mid way through the second half.

The Frenchman has looked good, and his form is far superior to that of Vibe.

Brentford will take positives from the game, with a major bonus being the performance of young Ollie Watkins.

The reigning EFL Young Player of the Season looks to be one of the signings of the summer, and the near £1.7 million fee to secure his services looks to be loose change at this stage.

Watkins is pacey, tricky, and loves running at opposition defences, and was suitably rewarded for a fine outing with a second half equaliser.

Brentford certainly missed influential midfielder Ryan Woods, who was absent following the devastating loss of his baby, and the return of the former Shrewsbury Town man in due course will be extremely anticipated by all associated with the club.

The defensive frailties need addressing before the transfer window slams shut next month, and Dean needs to settle on his best starting XI.

It has been a shoddy start, but results should come as Dean said, if the Bees continue the level of performance they showed last night.

Who do you think should start at the back on Saturday, Bees fans?