Liverpool journey to West London this weekend, totally conscious of the potential banana pores and skin Brentford signify.
The Reds stay high of the Premier League, however current stumbles and the chasing pack’s strain imply this conflict on the Gtech Neighborhood Stadium carries added significance.
Brentford’s exceptional 2-2 draw towards Manchester Metropolis final weekend underlines their tenacity. Falling two objectives behind to Phil Foden’s brilliance, they clawed their manner again with Yoane Wissa sparking the comeback and Christian Norgaard sealing a dramatic equaliser in damage time.
Liverpool would do nicely to notice how Brentford turned the tide, exploiting their physicality and set-piece prowess towards one of many league’s most organised groups.
Arne Slot’s facet, in the meantime, arrives on the again of a irritating 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest. Regardless of salvaging a degree by way of Diogo Jota’s late intervention, the league leaders regarded uncharacteristically toothless at instances. With Nottingham Forest and Arsenal respiration down their necks, Liverpool can not afford one other slip in kind.
Brentford’s unpredictability is a trademark of their recreation. Slot acknowledged this in his pre-match press convention, highlighting their means to press excessive, defend deep, and rating in varied methods, together with set-pieces.
These attributes will take a look at Liverpool’s defensive resolve, which has regarded shaky of late. Slot might downplay issues over clear sheets, however the absence of defensive solidity is a worrying development because the title race heats up.
In assault, Liverpool have their very own inquiries to reply. Darwin Nunez has come beneath scrutiny, , emphasising the collective goal-scoring choices within the squad.
Even so, consistency within the ultimate third is vital towards a Brentford facet able to capitalising on missed alternatives.
The Gtech Neighborhood Stadium has not been a fortress for Brentford this season, with current house defeats to Arsenal and Plymouth Argyle exposing their vulnerabilities.
Nonetheless, their spirited battle towards Metropolis confirmed they’ll nonetheless rise to the event. Liverpool’s unbeaten away report beneath Slot faces one in every of its hardest checks right here.
Whereas historical past favours Liverpool, having received their final 4 league conferences with Brentford, previous outcomes imply little in a season the place no crew has been proof against surprises.
The Reds’ title aspirations hinge on their means to navigate matches like this, balancing respect for his or her opponent with the ruthlessness required to take care of their lead.
Brentford is not going to make it straightforward. Liverpool have to be ready for a battle, with each level now treasured in a race that’s removed from over.
