Brentford were exceptional. It can be portrayed as a smash-and-grab victory but the Bees deserved the points after a brilliant defensive display.
They were resilient, compact, organised and battle-hardened. They gave Aston Villa nowhere to go despite the constant second-half pressure.
Brentford had only 12 touches in Villa's box, compared to the hosts' 76, but the Bees earned their win through grit and determination.
The threat of Keith Andrews' side was downplayed at the start of the season, a rookie boss having lost Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa to Manchester United and Newcastle respectively.
Andrews was aware of the perception of him and his side and they have gone about proving the doubters wrong.
A European place is within their grasp as they top the chasing pack in a congested mid-table.
Only three points separate Brentford and 12th-placed Bournemouth but, on this evidence, the Bees have the stomach and quality for the fight.
