Brentford and Crystal Palace Battle for First Points

english premier league Preview: Brentford vs Crystal Palace - Match 5 of EPL Season for BRE and CRY.

Brentford vs Crystal Palace Gtech Community Stadium, London Sunday 18th August 2024 Kick-off: Premier League Game Round of 37. Both teams will be seeking their first points this season and it promises to be an important early examination with the game kicking off at 14:00.

History and Recent Form

Brentford are 9th but have had struggles against Crystal Palace, who lie in the two spots below at 11th. Brentford have drawn five and lost one of their six Premier League trips to Selhurst Park- the most recent meeting in December 2023 was a 1-3 away win for Crystal Palace. Crystal Palace will have the mental edge with history on their side, but Brentford is looking to re-write that story.

One of those victories was at Tottenham, but the Bees have shown spirit and quality in their play so far this season. By comparison, Crystal Palace finished the last campaign in style winning six of their final seven matches. That could prove to be a rare success under manager Oliver Glasner and the momentum with which Wolfsburg enter this game is not to sniff at.

Key Players to Watch

Brentford will again be looking to top scorer Ivan Toney, who has not found the net in 12 matches. Brentford look to secure their first victory in the Premier League when they take on Crystal Palace and Toney could be key. His role in ending this goal drought will be crucial to lifting spirits and picking up the all-important points.

Jean-Philippe Mateta has been key for Crystal Palace. He has been in top form under the tutelage of Glasner, and Palace cannot afford for Mateta not to hit his straps as they build their offensive game. His ability in front of goal will certainly present a big problem for the Brentford back line and they must produce one of their best performances so far if he is to be stopped.

Tactical Insights

Brentford, on the other hand will be looking to come out all guns blazing in front of their home faithful. Keeping the ball and getting up a head of steam could unsettle an ever-stubborn Brentford defence on whom Fulham have so often come apart.

Crystal Palace has been structured and good on the counter, it is likely they will try to get behind Brentford who at times tend to push up a lot which creates space that can be exploited by Mateta or his wingers using their quick feet.