In a Premier League clash characterized by challenging weather and tactical discipline, Brentford edged out Crystal Palace 2-1 at Selhurst Park on Super Sunday. The game, marking Thomas Frank's 300th match as Brentford's head coach, saw the visitors claim a vital victory in wet and windy conditions. A combination of strategic prowess and on-field efficiency led Brentford to secure all three points amid a closely contested encounter.
The first half unfolded with both teams struggling to create clear-cut opportunities, reflecting the combined Expected Goals (xG) total of just 0.4 at the break. Chances were indeed at a premium, with each side registering only 0.2 xG apiece. Brentford's Mark Flekken had to be sharp early on, producing a strong right-handed save to deny Jean-Philippe Mateta's fierce strike inside the first ten minutes. On the other end, Dean Henderson showcased his reflexes by tipping Yoane Wissa's low effort around the post, while Bryan Mbeumo saw his free-kick narrowly miss the target.
The deadlock was finally broken under contentious circumstances. Bryan Mbeumo had a penalty saved, but a VAR review determined that Marc Guehi encroached into the penalty area. As a result, Mbeumo was granted a second chance, which he successfully converted to put Brentford in front. Discussing the incident, Jamie Redknapp observed the unusual tactics during the penalty, noting,
"I've never seen anything like that in my life! Wissa is obviously trying to fool the 'keeper and you can even see Lewis-Potter doing the same thing. That's like a distraction thing to maybe put off the goalkeeper. I've never seen that in my life, it's crazy!"
Crystal Palace found themselves struggling to regain composure following the penalty incident. Jamie Redknapp remarked on their defensive frailties,
"Look at the mess Crystal Palace get themselves into, they can't clear the ball. Hughes, this is definitely a handball there so VAR would have intervened."
As the match progressed, Brentford capitalized on their lead by doubling their advantage in the 80th minute. Kevin Schade rose to meet an inviting cross with a well-placed header, leaving Crystal Palace with an uphill battle. Despite the setback, Palace continued to press forward in search of a breakthrough.
Late drama ensued when Romain Esse scored for Crystal Palace, injecting life into the closing moments of the match. With nine minutes of added time, tension heightened as both teams pushed for crucial goals. Brentford's defense held firm amid the onslaught, ensuring Thomas Frank's milestone match ended on a high note.
Reflecting on Brentford's performance, Thomas Frank expressed his satisfaction,
"Big three points. I said to the players before the game or during the week that no one game is defining for a season unless you've been in a play-off final – we did that twice, that's pretty defining – but I just knew we were coming here to Selhurst Park, very difficult to play here against a very good team that I like and admire a lot and in unbelievably difficult circumstances."
Oliver Glasner, reflecting on his team's performance, noted,
"I think it was game where both teams neutralised each other, with not as many chances as you would like. And it was whoever made the first mistake loses the game."
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