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Beesotted contributor The Gowler (@BeesBreakdown) gives us the tactical and statistical lowdown of Brentford’s win agaisnt Bournemouth.

Thomas Frank switched things up by bringing Jensen in the starting XI, but keeping the other three midfielders to try to gain a numbers advantage in midfield. Brentford’s fluidity allowed them to drift into different formations, at times using a 4-3-3 and 4-4-2 in this match. Keane Lewis-Potter started at left back, joining Pinnock, Collins, and van den Berg. Nørgaard and Janelt the defensive midfielders, with Jensen and Damsgaard pushing further up the pitch in the half-space. Mbeumo drifted out wide on the right wing, while Wissa deployed centrally.

Andoni Iraola deployed a 4-2-3-1 with Kerkez, Senesi, Zabarnyi, and Adam Smith on the backline. Lewis Cook and Tyler Adams the defensive midfielders with Christie ahead of them. Kluivert and Semenyo started out wide to isolate fullbacks and win 1v1 takeons. Evanilson, the lone striker, led Bournemouth’s coordinated press.

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Brentford initially struggled against Bournemouth’s press but started to gain confidence as the match progressed. The Bees ended with 52% possession, although Bournemouth ended with 2.61 xG to Brentford’s 1.48 xG.

The Bees made the most of their chances, supported by Brentford’s 1.84 expected goals on target (xGOT), while Bournemouth ended with 1.68 xGOT.  The Cherries only had 3 shots on target, and a few big chances missed, allowing the Bees to come away with a win.

Thomas Frank made some slight tactical adjustments from the Fulham match, allowing Janelt to drop into the backline in possession and help beat Bournemouth’s press. The Bees also sent Jensen and Damsgaard into the half-space to provide room for Janelt and Nørgaard to progress the ball.

Overall, Brentford’s out of possession play handled Bournemouth’s attack. The Cherries only scored on a misplaced pass and a dead ball situation. Still, Brentford will need to limit these mistakes and clean up some things, having already conceded 22 goals this season.