Brentford were beaten 2-0 at Hull on Tuesday night as the Tigers' Premier League experience and budget proved pivotal.
Harlee Dean's unfortunate own goal was followed by Mo Diame's strike just before the break as the Tigers maintained their strong form at home.
Dean Smith met the media after the defeat to discuss the difference between the two sides, among other things. Below is a synopsis of what was discussed.
On Marco Djuricin's performance: “I don't think he had the best of the first half but I don't think we were great in the first half.
“I thought he was better in the second half but we didn't have too much of the ball and didn't make good enough use of it as we can.”
On Jake Bidwell's injury: “He felt a cramp in his hamstring similar to Lasse Vibe. We can't take chances with that and we're hoping he'll be okay.
“Macca (Alan McCormack) was calling over to me at the end but we couldn't make any more changes. It was that sort of night.”
On John Swift's performance: “We played him behind the frontman and he didn't get involved as much as I'd like him to.
“I felt we needed to hurt them by going in behind them. Both John and Marco kept showing to feet and their centre halves were happy with that.”
On the difference between the sides: “They're able to rest a number of players and rotate and we haven't got that luxury.
“We've had three games in March and seven or eight in April. The injuries are taking it's toll on the team.”
On Scott Hogan and Lasse Vibe fitness: “Scott was rested again on Tuesday. He'll be fine for Saturday and I hope Lasse will be as well.”
On Andy Gogia's performance: “He did all right when he came on. He looked a bright spark and won a couple of free kicks around their box.”
On the match officials' display: “I thought we needed a bit more protection from the referee. It bewildered me that we ended with three bookings and them none as did the penalty.
"I'm not sure it was even a light touch – I thought he slipped. They both had hold of each others shirt so if you're going to be consistent; do it in the other box as well.”
