West Brom v Brentford: Inside track on The Bees
West Brom host Brentford as they look to retain top spot in The Championship, but what do you know about The Bee's?
We spoke to Trevor Inns from Griffin Park Grapevine to get his take on Albion's opponents.
How has the season gone so far for Brentford, in your opinion?
After our usual slow start to the season, we've hit our stride following a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down to win with three goals in the last the minutes against Millwall in mid-October. Since then our climb-up the league has progressed quite nicely. Everything now is ticking along nicely.
Would anything other than playoffs be a huge disappointment?
Not if we are in the top two places instead! Our record in the play-offs is abysmal, despite our then Chairman originally proposing them, we have lost every single time we've been in them. So we would rather avoid them on an historical basis. But, yes, I don't think anyone is looking forward to finishing lower than 6th - funny that.
What kind of style can Albion fans expect to see from Brentford?
A highly-technical side with lots of nice, one-touch football. Patient build-up, and selective shot-taking. Out of possession we press high with a strong workrate.
Who are the threats for the Bees and why?
Our front three are mobile and energetic. Everyone expected us to miss Maupay but Olly Watkins's move into the central role has seen him yield the same number of goals as Maupay had at this time last season. The front line is probably the best that has ever played for the club and do their duty defending as well as attacking. We have goal threat from midfield as well with Josh DaSilva particularly potent from around the box.
Are there any injury worries ahead of the game?
None.
What's your predicted XI for Brentford heading into the game?
We have a settled side now. The only question is if Norgaard (who picked at a slight knock in the mid-week fixture last week) is restored to the starting line up instead his replacement, Mokotjo, who had an excellent game against Fulham last Saturday. I don't expect any surprises in terms of team selection.
What have you made from Albion from afar? Do you think they have enough to secure promotion to the Premier League?
No doubt the addition of Romaine Sawyers has seen his sublime through-balls generate lots of chances. WBA and Leeds are obviously favourites for promotion at this half-way stage of the season. However, there's a long way to go and it will be a long, hard road to the end. Whoever gets promoted will have to avoid injuries to key-men, retain their major off-field contributors, have a squad that can contribute, and be a little bit lucky.
Prediction
The first Bees win ever at Hawthorns, 0-3.
