Brentford began their season on a high note, securing a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, despite the absence of star striker Ivan Toney. Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa stepped up to fill the void, continuing their impressive form from last season when Toney was sidelined due to a betting ban.
Key Moments:
Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa: The duo once again proved crucial for Brentford. Wissa set up Mbeumo for the opening goal, where Mbeumo skillfully cut inside Marc Guehi and delivered a precise shot into the corner.
Controversial Decision: Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze appeared to have scored from a free-kick, only for referee Sam Barratt to disallow the goal due to a foul by Will Hughes on Nathan Collins. Replays indicated there was no clear foul, but VAR couldn't intervene since the whistle had blown before the ball crossed the line. This decision left Palace and their manager, Oliver Glasner, frustrated, with pundits like Jamie Redknapp criticizing the call.
Crystal Palace Equalizer: Palace managed to equalize in the second half when Tyrick Mitchell’s cross was headed back across goal by Daniel Munoz and inadvertently turned into his own net by Brentford's Ethan Pinnock.
Brentford's Winning Goal: Brentford regained the lead in the 76th minute after Dean Henderson parried a deflected shot from Nathan Collins straight into the path of Wissa, who capitalized on the opportunity to secure the win.
Transfer Speculations:
Ivan Toney: Toney's absence was attributed to transfer interest, with reports suggesting a potential move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli. Despite Toney's willingness to play, Brentford opted to leave him out, eyeing a possible £60 million transfer fee.
Marc Guehi: Crystal Palace's Guehi, also at the center of transfer rumors with a bid from Newcastle, was made captain in this match, signaling Palace's intent to keep the England international.
Conclusion: Brentford's victory marked head coach Thomas Frank's 100th league win and underscored the team's resilience in the absence of their key striker. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace will be left to ponder what might have been, had the controversial decision gone their way.
Source:Livescore