Brentford head coach Keith Andrews has praised Sunderland and Régis Le Bris for producing an “enthralling” tactical battle after the two sides played out a 1-1 draw at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Sunderland were arguably the better side before half-time, creating several promising opportunities and putting Brentford under sustained pressure. Dan Ballard thought he had given the visitors the lead, only for the goal to be ruled out following a VAR review.
Enzo Le Fée also came close when his effort struck the post, while Thomas Meunier saw another opportunity blocked as Sunderland repeatedly threatened.
Andrews responded by making three changes at the break, introducing Aaron Hickey, Yehor Yarmoliuk and Jaidon Anthony as Brentford looked to change the momentum.
The move worked. Brentford returned from the interval with greater intensity and eventually took the lead through Vitaly Janelt, whose powerful strike put the hosts ahead.
Sunderland refused to fold, however, and were rewarded late in the match when Wilson Isidor was fouled inside the area. Le Fée stepped up from the penalty spot and calmly converted to secure a point for Le Bris’ side.
Andrews admitted he had been disappointed with Brentford’s first-half performance but gave significant credit to Sunderland’s tactical approach.
He described the contest as the type of Premier League game that excites him, praising both teams for going “toe-to-toe” and highlighting the tactical battle involving possession, defensive structures, set-pieces and changes in shape.
Andrews praises Le Bris’ tactical plan
Le Bris made one change to the Sunderland team, handing Kevin Danso his debut after his deadline-day arrival. The Black Cats frequently altered their shape depending on whether they had possession, creating problems for Brentford during the opening 45 minutes.
Andrews acknowledged that Sunderland’s approach was similar to what he had seen from Le Bris previously, but he praised the manager for his preparation and attention to detail.
The Brentford boss also admitted that his team had been below their usual level before the interval.
After the restart, Brentford improved significantly and looked more like the side Andrews expected to see. The changes brought additional energy and helped the hosts gain greater control of the match.
Refereeing decision leaves Andrews frustrated
Despite praising Sunderland’s performance, Andrews was far less impressed with the officiating.
The Brentford boss questioned several decisions made by referee Thomas Bramall and particularly discussed the penalty awarded to Sunderland.
Brentford players and supporters were unhappy with the decision, but Andrews stopped short of launching a prolonged attack on the officials.
Instead, he admitted that he had been frustrated by the overall flow of the match and felt some decisions had contributed to the game becoming difficult to control.
Ultimately, the result leaves both sides with a point, but Andrews’ comments underline just how highly he rated Sunderland’s tactical performance.
For Le Bris and Sunderland, earning a point away from home after such a strong first-half display will provide plenty of encouragement as their Premier League campaign continues.
