Bernd Leno shone as Fulham's defence held firm, but their toothless attack worryingly faltered again. Who impressed, and who will face scrutiny after the frustrating draw?
Fulham came to the Gtech Stadium needing a win to really re-launch their potential for qualification into Europe next season.
It did not come.
And, frankly, nor did it look like even remotely coming, with Fulham unable to have a single shot on target against Brentford.
It is the second straight match in which Fulham have failed to score and it raises serious questions of Marco Silva’s approach to these matches.
A 2-0 loss to a Liverpool side that were there for the taking was one thing but coming to Brentford, your local rivals and a direct rival for European football and not having a shot on target is extremely worrying.
There were some positives, but they were all at the back for Fulham in what was largely a match not worth watching.
So, who were those positives and who will be lucky to be involved in the Cottagers’ next match?
Bernd Leno - 9
People have had their say on Bernd Leno and his form this season but today he proved just why he is Fulham’s No.1.
The German made four saves, including a free-kick stop from Mathias Jensen but it was the save from Dango Ouattara’s late effort that really made the difference and earned him player of the match.
Ryan Sessegnon - 7
One of Fulham’s more positive attacking players was their left back, which tells you all you need to know.
Sessegnon was solid at the back, if not spectacular, and was able to create two chances, albeit at an accrued expected assists of 0.04.
Calvin Bassey - 8
It was a challenging afternoon for Bassey, with Igor Thiago, Ouattara and Kevin Schade all putting their best feet forward.
Bassey was largely able to deal with the trio, though and played a major role in the clean sheet. Going forward, he could possibly have done better with one of his three efforts on goal.
Joachim Andersen - 8
Similar to Bassey, Andersen was well equipped for the challenge of the Brentford front three and although his passing radar was a little off at times, it was a strong showing.
Timothy Castagne - 7
Perfectly solid performance from the Belgium international, who had a bit of a shaky game at Anfield a week ago.
Probably the least eye catching of the back four but put in a strong showing in the absence of Kenny Tete.
Tom Cairney - 7
Solid in the heart of the midfield and kept things ticking over as best as he could with 97% passing accuracy.
Did create two chances but on a day like today, I’m not sure 100 chances would have led to a goal for Fulham.
Sasa Lukic - 7
Played his part and threw himself around as he always does.
One chance created amassed XA of 0.21 and his passing accuracy of 87.2% showed his ability to also tick things over, four fouls were largely unnecessary and gave Brentford set piece threat.
Alex Iwobi - 6
Was having a solid game on the left for Fulham when his hamstring appeared to give up on him.
Fingers crossed it is nothing too serious and he is able to return as soon as possible to action.
Emile Smith Rowe - 5
Created virtually nothing and committed three fouls, not the finest performance from Smith Rowe and he was replaced by Josh King 20 minutes from time.
Harry Wilson - 6
Maybe the only Fulham attacker to come out of the game with any credit but still some way from his best.
Let down by virtually no support and was unable to whip a rabbit out of a hat like he often can.
Rodrigo Muniz - 2
Zero shots, 0.00 XA, just seven passes at a completion rate of 28.6%.
Muniz has struggled since returning from injury and this was a performance that left you wondering if he needs some extended time off.
Replacements:
Samuel Chukwueze - 5
Replaced Iwobi but lacked the same level of composure as his Nigeria colleague.
Raul Jimenez - 4
Muniz had a shocker and Jimenez came on and was barely any better.
Josh King - 5
As always he gave his all but was unable to shift the momentum away from Brentford who were on top when he came on.
Oscar Bobb - NA
Only came on for Cairney after 81 minutes.
Antonee Robinson - NA
Replaced Sessegnon but only with nine minutes to play.