Central defender Mark Phillips said the players were aware they were in the middle of an important run of games that might decide whether they clinched promotion at the end of the campaign.

Phillips, speaking after Brentford's 1-0 win at Grimsby Town, said everyone knew how important the current spell - with The Bees two games into a run of seven matches in 21 days - was.

"Apart from a couple of games up north we have been very consistent through the season," said Phillips. "We are aware how much it matters now and we are producing the goods.

"We are scoring goals, playing solidly and keeping clean sheets.

"Confidence is growing and we feel we can beat anyone.

"It was a good win tonight, conditions were atrocious.

"They didn't have a shot at goal and we have done very well to get the three points.

"It was a scrappy game and when we got the goal it relaxed us a little bit.

"The back four could then do the job and keep the clean sheet for the win."