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Beesotted contributor Jacob ‘The Gowler’ Gowler (@BeesBreakdown) gives us the tactical and statistical lowdown of Brentford’s loss against Aston Villa.

Thomas Frank made one change to his starting XI, to bring in Nørgaard returning from injury. Brentford’s backline consisted of Ajer, Collins, Pinnock, and Lewis-Potter. Nørgaard joined Janelt in a double pivot, with Damsgaard roaming ahead of them. Schade, Wissa, and Mbeumo made up the front trio looking to get in-behind.

Unai Emery’s side matched up in a 4-2-3-1 with Disasi, Konsa, Mings, and Digne on the backline. Tielemans and McGinn the defensive midfielders supporting a dangerous Morgan Rogers. The wingers, Ramsey and Bailey joined Ollie Watkins up top. Only one surprise for Aston Villa with Emi Martinez missing out due to injury, which saw Robin Olsen replace him in goal.

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Brentford held 60% possession but failed to create high percentage opportunities. The Bees struggled against Villa’s midblock, continually passing back to Flekken to stretch out the lines, but Villa reluctantly pressed.

Aston Villa created their own chances by taking advantage of Brentford’s man marking and using Watkins as a target man. Villa also racked up 0.56 xG from set plays, but scored on a counter attack against Brentford’s rest defence after a long throw.

One clear standout, Nørgaard, an integral part of the squad, had 11 ball recoveries but also ended with 5 shot creating actions. His positioning a known attribute, but his passing range continues to grow. His return helped keep an organized backline, dropping to intercept through balls and extinguish Aston Villa’s attacks.