Brentford recorded their second consecutive 2-0 home victory in the space of four days as they saw off Tranmere Rovers at Griffin Park on Tuesday.

Second half goals from James Tarkowski and Clayton Donaldson ensured the Bees keep up the pressure on second-placed Leyton Orient – who they visit on Saturday.

The opening exchanges proved lively, with both sides enjoying a number of early chances.

Will Grigg saw his shot blocked by goalkeeper Owain Fon Williams, while Alan Judge’s follow up effort was cleared by a covering defender.

After Tarkowski’s header back fell short David Button was called into action when required to race out and clear the ball.

Judge then blasted over the bar, while at the other end Ryan Lowe hit the bar with a fierce shot.

Rovers came close again when Stephen Arthurworrey’s header bounced off the bar.

Judge was again prominent as he raced from the centre circle before shooting just over, while Tarkowski’s header was turned onto the post on the stroke of half time.

Fon Williams made an excellent save from a Judge free kick early in the second half, while he palmed away a good attempt from Jake Reeves.

The Bees looked purposeful during the second half and got the go-ahead goal when Jake Bidwell’s free kick from the left resulted in Tarkowski’s first goal for the club as he headed home.

Donaldson looked lively throughout and after coming close with a shot which hit the near post, he got the decisive second goal when he nodded in Judge’s cross from the left from close range at the back post.

Brentford: Button, McCormack, Tarkowski, Craig, Bidwell; Douglas, Judge (sub Adams 84), Saville (sub Forshaw 65), Reeves; Donaldson, Grigg (sub Trotta 65)

Subs (not used): Lee, O’Connor, Dallas, Yennaris