Finally, a victory over Brentford!
December 22, 2021 - the last time Chelsea defeated the West London rivals in the quarterfinals of the Carabao Cup. It’s been almost three years, and during that timeframe have gone 0W - 2L - 2D in all competitions, including a heavy 1-4 defeat in that 2021-22 PL season. It’s been quite a roller coaster since with 4 managers in charge & wholesale changes to the roster that only have Ben Chilwell, Reece James & Harvey Vale still remaining from that squad.
Brentford still gave lots of trouble against the lads as Thomas Frank setup his squad to play really compact in middle of their defensive half to outnumber Enzo Marseca’s usual box 4 shape when in possession. This forced him to play the ball out wide and utilized the wide attacking players of Noni Madueke & Jadon Sancho with Marc Cucurella making late runs to join in attack. The overload finally paid off right before the half as Cucurella scored a header from a lovely cross from Noni to take the lead 1-0. This helped open up Brentford’s defense as they chased the game to try to equalize and help setup of the counter attack for the 2nd goal from Nicolas Jackson, his 9th of the PL campaign. Brentford pulled one back in the 90th minute as he netted his 10 goal of the season, but the Blues held on to possession and avoid the late equalizer holding on to a 2-1 victory keeping them in a solid 2nd place in the table.
Up next, the boys travel north to face Everton at Goodison Park where it has been a tough challenge to come away with 3 points. The Toffees have a tough & gritty defensive squad and recently been on a decent run of form, not allowing a single opponent goal so far in December. Sean Dyche has managed Everton to 4 nil-nil draws in 25% of the PL matches played this season, but if the lads can break through that formidable defense, the floodgates will open up for goals.
Come down to the Londoner Addison this Sunday morning and kick it with the Shed End Dallas crew. We look forward to seeing you there!
Cheers,
Shed End Dallas