Brentford's chances of qualifying for European competition for the first time in their history were boosted by a 1-0 win over Ipswich at Portman Road, their fourth successive Premier League win.
Kevin Schade scored the only goal from a corner in the 18th minute to give his side the lead, but it was only late in the game when Omari Hutchinson hit the post and Mark Flekken made an impressive save to deny Cameron Burgess that they were not going to give in.
Thomas Frank's side's form, as well as a good run of games to go and a recent defeat to Fulham, leave them with a chance of eighth place, and with it perhaps a place in the Conference League, which looks quite tempting.
The battle for eighth place between the four teams could last until the final day, when the number of European places will be determined based on the results of the FA Cup final.
Before that, Marco Silva's Cottagers visit the Gtech Stadium next Saturday before the Bees travel to Wolves for what could be a defining moment in the club's history.
Kieran McKenna's side have just one chance left to add to their one home success this season and whatever investigation into their relegation lies ahead must start with the fact that they have scored just 13 goals at home.
The winning goal came early and was the only bright spot in a poor first half. A corner from Brian Mbeumo was taken just inside the box where Sade rose and headed the ball superbly beyond the reach of defender Dara O'Shea, who tried unsuccessfully to clear it off the line.
Jack Taylor's long-range effort for Ipswich after good work down the left by Julio Enciso was the only threat the hosts had created at Flecken's goal in the first half.
Brentford came close to doubling their lead on the break when Mikkel Damsgaard's first shot was off target.
McKenna will soon have time to reflect on what can be learned from his side's disappointingly short stay in the top flight.
One of the biggest positives will certainly be the performance of goalkeeper Alex Palmer, signed in January from West Bromwich Albion and who has taken to the division like a fish in water.
He added to his impressive saves early in the second half, denying Yoane Wissa before beating Mbeumo again at the near post.
Ipswich were close to claiming just their eighth home point of the campaign late in the match.
Hutchinson fired a powerful shot towards the near post from a good position and then Flekken produced a superb reaction to deny Burgess' volley which was the home side's clearest chance.
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