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Beesotted contributors The Gowler and Paul Kowalczyk (@BeesBreakdown) give us the tactical and statistical lowdown of Brentford’s defeat against Sheffield.

Thomas Frank switched back to a 4-3-3, while still dealing with the injury crisis. Mbeumo, the latest victim, will miss multiple matches due to a rolled ankle. Keane Lewis-Potter slotted into right wing, joined by Maupay and Wissa on the front line. Baptiste, Nørgaard, and Onyeka comprised the midfield trio, with Damsgaard working up to full fitness and Yarmolyuk getting some rest. Janelt slotted in as left back, with Ghoddos on the right. Mee and Pinnock started again as the centreback pairing.

Sheffield looked to get their second win this season with new manager Chris Wilder. His side came out in a 3-4-3 with Osula up top. McAtee and Archer provided support behind him. The midfield consisted of Hamer and de Souza Costa, with Bogle and Brooks the wingbacks. The backline saw Ahmedhodzic, Robinson, and Trust start.

2nd Minute

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45 + 3

77th Minute

79th Minute

 

Quick Stats:

Possession: Sheffield 40% – 60% Brentford

xG: Sheffield 0.81 – 0.66 Brentford

Shots: Sheffield 9 – 10 Brentford

Shots on Target: Sheffield 4 – 4 Brentford

Clearances: Sheffield 43 – 15 Brentford

PPDA: Sheffield 12.18 – 7.35 Brentford

Other Brentford stats:

Interceptions: 8

Aerial duels won: 15 (38%)

 

Summary

Brentford held 60% possession but struggled to create much going forward. They initially found some success with Keane Lewis-Potter in 1v1 situations on the right wing, but was missing the final pass.

A poor showing on both sides, led to Brentford only creating 0.66 xG to Sheffield’s 0.81 xG. Brentford didn’t execute on set plays and failed to control the match as the possession statistics indicate.

For a team that stresses the importance of winning second balls and aerial dominance, it was surprising to see Brentford won 38% of aerial duels, after only winning 34% of aerial duels in the midweek match against Brighton. Brentford also looked a bit slow compared to Sheffield, the Blades ended with 56 ball recoveries compared to Brentford’s 46.

Brentford welcome Aston Villa, who haven’t lost in 7 matches, to the GTech on Saturday. The Bees will hope to get Jensen back fully fit to face an Aston Villa side that just beat Manchester City and Arsenal.