Brentford manager Thomas Frank has disclosed that Bryan Mbeumo’s early strike against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday was the result of a well-rehearsed plan. The Cameroonian forward found the net just 22 seconds into the match with a remarkable volley, tying the record for the fastest Premier League goal this season.
Mbeumo now shares the honour with teammate Yoane Wissa, who scored against Manchester City in the same time frame just one week earlier.
Despite the speed of both goals, they only rank as the 27th fastest in Premier League history.
Brentford’s success in scoring such rapid goals is no coincidence.
Both of these early strikes began with long, strategic balls from goalkeeper Mark Flekken, a tactic that Frank has confirmed the team actively works on.
Speaking after the match, the Danish coach explained that Brentford approaches kick-offs as if they were set-pieces, aiming to exploit the opposition from the very start.
“Of course, it’s one of the more difficult scenarios to score from, but we see it as a set-play situation we can set up and control as much as possible,” said Frank. “We work on the kick-offs.
Some of it is the ball forward, but also what you do on the second balls and where you position yourselves after that.”
Mbeumo’s goal exemplifies the tactical precision Brentford has been honing under Frank’s guidance.
The Bees’ ability to turn kick-off scenarios into attacking opportunities reflects their preparedness and sharpness on the pitch.
The team’s set-piece-like approach to kick-offs allows them to manipulate the situation to their advantage, catching opponents off guard early in the match.
Mbeumo’s impressive start to the season has been a significant boost for Brentford, particularly following the departure of star striker Ivan Toney, who moved to Al-Ahli last month.
The 24-year-old forward has already netted four goals in the opening five games of the campaign, showcasing his ability to lead the team’s attack in Toney’s absence.
Mbeumo’s early goal not only stunned Tottenham but also demonstrated Brentford’s well-drilled approach to the game.
The West London club, known for their tactical discipline and set-piece prowess, continue to be a formidable side in the Premier League under Frank’s leadership.
The match against Tottenham further solidified Brentford’s reputation as a team that can execute well-planned strategies to perfection.
With Mbeumo in fine form and a team that is clearly well-prepared, Brentford’s prospects for the season look promising.
Their ability to capitalise on seemingly small moments, like kick-offs, sets them apart as one of the league’s most tactically astute teams.
