Football: Isaiah is top Rankin

ISAIAH RANKIN struck early in the second half to seal a win for Brentford.

It followed-up Stewart Talbot's goal, which had put the London side ahead after 32 minutes.

Derek Holmes hit a 50th-minute reply for Bournemouth, but the Cherries could not force an equaliser.

Brentford created all the early pace, with John Solako a potent threat.

But Bournemouth forced their way back into the game, with Gareth O'Connor trying a long-range effort.

Talbot's goal took the sting out of their tail, and the Bees should have doubled their advantage when Stephen Hunt's 25-yard drive was tipped round the post by keeper Neil Moss.

But Rankin did find the back of the net two minutes after the break, heading Solako's free-kick in to the top corner.

Holmes pulled one back with his own header soon after, but the red card shown to Neil Young ended any fightback hopes.

Copyright 2004 MGN LTD
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.