Beesotted contributor Jacob ‘The Gowler’ Gowler (@BeesBreakdown) gives us the tactical and statistical lowdown of Brentford’s win against Everton.
Keith Andrews switched things up by bringing Damsgaard into the starting XI but keeper three other midfielders. The Bees came out in a 4-3-1-2 or 4-2-2-2 depending on the phase of play. Hickey got the start alongside Collins, Ajer and Kayode. Damsgaard joined Jensen, Yarmoliuk, and Janelt in midfield, while Schade and Thiago started up top.
David Moyes’s Everton side came out in a 4-2-3-1 with O’Brien, Tarkowski, Keane, and Mykolenko on the backline. The double pivot consisted of Iroegbunam and Garner with McNeil just ahead of them in the 10 role. Dibling and Grealish started on the wings providing support for Barry up top.
Brentford held 55% possession and created loads of xG, 2.66 xG and 2.37 of that from open play. Even with the brilliant performance from open play, the Bees scored their first goal from a corner this season.
Brentford showcased their varied buildup, by attacking from building out of the back, winning second balls, and launching it long. The Bees continued to build on their play in the final third, with more and more passes seeming to get in dangerous areas.
Thiago’s clinical finishing proved to be the difference, with the Brazilian striker scoring 14 goals already this season. Janelt also continued his good run of form, with two assists and one of those coming from a defensive action. Brentford’s midfield certainly crowded, but Keith Andrews will gladly accept that “problem.”
