Nottingham Forest were hovering above the relegation zone when Nuno Espirito Santo was appointed as head coach 12 months ago.
However, there has been a complete transformation in their fortunes this term and goals from Ola Aina and Anthony Elanga ensured there was a celebratory feel to his one-year anniversary in charge.
A seventh league win in 10 for Forest ensured they will occupy a place in the top four in the Premier League at Christmas for the first time in 30 years and means it is also difficult to ignore their growing challenge to secure European football for the first time since the 1995-96 campaign.
Resolute in defence and incisive on the break, Forest were worthy winners against a Brentford side who came into the contest boasting the best top-flight record at home this term, having won seven and drawn one of their previous eight fixtures.
Morato, Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo all excelled with the hosts also failing to score at the Gtech Community Stadium for the first time this season.
