Brentford's Mbeumo & Wissa: Unstoppable at Home in Premier League

Dec 7, 2024 at 8:11 PM
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Emma Smith, BBC Sport journalist, recently witnessed an extraordinary performance by Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa. In Brentford's 4 - 2 Premier League win over Newcastle, Mbeumo's assessment by manager Thomas Frank as "unplayable" seemed spot on. The striker's dominance against the away defence was crucial in maintaining Brentford's excellent home record and propelling them to sixth place at the final whistle.

Unstoppable Duo - Mbeumo and Wissa's Premier League Heroics

Section 1: Mbeumo's Individual Brilliance

Mbeumo opened the scoring with a fine cut inside from the right and then curled home a left - footed finish. His assist to Kevin Schade for the fourth goal by chipping over the advancing Nick Pope showcased his exceptional play - making skills. Since the start of 2021 - 22, Mbeumo and Wissa have scored in 15 different Premier League games for Brentford, more than any other duo in the competition. Eight of his nine Premier League goals this season have come at home, highlighting his home - field dominance. His current tally of 9 goals already equals his best ever Premier League season tally, and it's not even Christmas yet. His ability to hold the ball up and link play is truly impressive, as Frank pointed out when praising him to BBC Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker.

Section 2: Wissa's Goal - Scoring Prowess

Wissa scored the pick of the six goals at Gtech Community Stadium, making it 2 - 1 after 28 minutes. He pounced on a loose Harvey Barnes pass and advanced on a timid Newcastle defence before curling past Pope from 20 yards. Now with 19 goals at the Gtech in the Premier League, he has the same number as Ivan Toney. His form with Mbeumo means Brentford have not missed Toney since his summer departure to Saudi Arabia. The pair's combined efforts have made Brentford a more fearsome attacking unit, with no longer being so reliant on one central striker.

Section 3: Team Dynamics and Attacking Depth

Brentford are joint top scorers in the Premier League this season with 31 goals, level with Chelsea. The return to fitness of Igor Thiago gives them impressive attacking depth. However, Frank must be careful not to unbalance the system that has been working so well. The freedom to not have to focus solely on feeding Toney has helped Mbeumo blossom. The side have never had so many points (23) after 15 Premier League games before. But there are still weaknesses, notably in defence. Both Mbeumo and Wissa's goals were followed by Newcastle equalisers, and Brentford have both scored and conceded at least two goals in the first half of three different Premier League games this season. Frank also acknowledged their less fearsome away form, with just one point from seven away games.

Section 4: Season Outlook and Future Prospects

The question now is how far Mbeumo and Wissa, backed by their teammates, can carry Brentford this season. Their current form gives fans hope of a concerted push for a first ever European campaign. If they continue in this unplayable form seen against Newcastle, it could become a reality. Brentford's recent winning streak at home is a positive sign, but they need to improve their away game. With their attacking firepower and team dynamics, there is potential for great things this season.