Beesotted contributors The Gowler and Paul Kowalczyk (@BeesBreakdown) give us the tactical and statistical lowdown of Brentford’s win against Bournemouth.
Thomas Frank deployed a 4-3-3 for the 5th consecutive match and the last away day of the season. No changes from the Fulham match as Brentford looked to jump Everton in the Premier League table. Reguilon, Pinnock, Collins, and Ajer comprised the backline. Damsgaard joined Norgaard and Janelt in midfield with Jensen back on the bench after picking up a knock. Keane Lewis-Potter got another chance up top with Mbeumo and Toney. Wissa and Schade the attacking reinforcements on the bench.
Andoni Iraola’s side came out in a 4-2-3-1, although they press in more of a 4-2-2. Their backline consisted of Adam Smith, Zabarnyi, Senesi, and Lloyd Kelly. Ryan Christie and Lewis Cook formed a double pivot behind Kluivert in the number 10 role. Semenyo and Outtara prepared to isolate defenders on the wing in 1v1 situations, while trying to feed target man Solanke. Iraola had plenty of options off the bench with Tavernier, Unal, and Tyler Adams all fit and available.
5th Minute
15th Minute
17th Minute
41st Minute
68th Minute
86th Minute
89th Minute
90 + 5 Minutes
Summary
Bournemouth’s unconventional press gave Brentford some trouble, but the Bees planned for ways to bypass the press. Brentford used variation in buildup to build out of the back and make long balls effective. Bournemouth did win back possession high up the pitch a few times but failed to take advantage of those sequences.
Mark Flekken actually led the squad in xGBuildUp, which goes to show how instrumental he was in Brentford’s tactics. His distribution was on full display for the first goal, finding Wissa in stride running down the wing.
Although Bournemouth had more shots, Brentford won the xG battle and ended with more shots on target. The Bees also recorded one of their lowest PPDA’s of the season, suggesting that their press was effective. Iraola made some second half adjustments, but Thomas Frank quickly adapted to this himself.
Sergio Reguilon had 8 tackles and interceptions, which was needed against a side that tries to take advantage of 1v1s on the wing. Mbeumo got his 50th goal, while ending with 4 shot creating actions as well. Wissa, in limited minutes, ended with 0.4 xAG, leading the squad and, as usual, performing well as a super sub.
