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

Thomas Frank started with a 4-2-3-1 for the first time this season, after tinkering in preseason and a few cup matches. Sepp van den Berg, Collins, Pinnock, and Ajer made up the backline as usual, while Janelt and Nørgaard formed a double pivot. Damsgaard pushed forward as the number 10, while Mbeumo and Lewis-Potter the wingers. Kevin Schade got his start up top, after playing wide for the majority of the match against West Ham.

Gary O’Neil deployed a 4-1-4-1 with Nouri, Gomes, Dawsgon, and Semedo forming the backline. Andre came out as a defensive midfielder with Joao Gomes and Lemina a bit further forward. Creative wingers, Cuhna and Forbs, joined target man, Strand Larsen, up front.

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Summary

Brentford ended with 4.25 xG to Wolverhampton’s 1.05 xG. The Bees scored the most goals in the Premier League so far this season. It’s also the 4th highest xG recorded in a match this season, joining Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham.

Thomas Frank allowed his centrebacks to get forward, which gave Wolves trouble from the start of the match. Pinnock consistently pressed Strand Larsen high up the pitch which kept him relatively quiet, and it was obvious Brentford saw the danger he posed.

Brentford also gave Wolves difficulty from their counterpress. As soon as Brentford lost possession in the oppositions half the Bees swarmed. Thomas Frank’s side executed excellent positioning, and the coordinated press led to quite a few chances going forward.

During the second half, Brentford allowed Wolves a bit more possession which also led to a few counters for the Bees. Damsgaard not only started these chances but created high xG opportunities.

Damsgaard ended with 2 assists, but had 4 goal creating actions, 6 key passes, 5 ball recoveries, and 3 tackles. Mbeumo, another player all over the pitch, had 8 shot creating actions, and put in quite an effort out of possession as well with 8 ball recoveries