Brentford welcomes Fulham on Sunday in a compelling mid-table showdown, with the hosts sitting eighth and the visitors close behind in 11th in the Premier League table.
Nolan James May 14
Brentford vs Fulham: In-Form Bees Look to Sting Out-of-Sorts Cottagers in West London Derby
Brentford play host to Fulham on Sunday in a West London derby that could have significant implications in the race for a European spot. Just four points separate the two sides, with Brentford sitting eighth on 55 points and Fulham trailing in 11th. Momentum, however, lies firmly with the home side.
Their last encounter, back on 4th November, was packed with late drama. Vitaly Janelt gave Brentford the lead, but Fulham turned it around in injury time thanks to a stunning brace from Harry Wilson, snatching a 3-2 win at the death.
Thomas Frank’s side have hit a rich vein of form, taking 13 points from their last five matches – including four straight wins. That run has reignited their hopes of qualifying for Europe via the UEFA Europa Conference League, especially if Manchester City beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final.
Since a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in mid-April, the Bees have rattled off victories against Brighton (4-2), Nottingham Forest (2-0), Manchester United (4-3), and Ipswich (1-0). They’ve looked sharp in front of goal and resilient at the back, with Kevin Schade’s recent winner underlining the squad’s growing depth.
At home, Brentford have been tough to beat – 28 points from 18 matches with an average of 2.1 goals scored per game. They’re riding high and are full of belief heading into this one.
Just a fortnight ago, Fulham were in the hunt for a top-eight finish. Now, they look to be running on fumes. One win from their last five – a 2-1 success at already-relegated Southampton – is the only bright spot in a concerning stretch.
Losses to Everton (3-1), Aston Villa (1-0), Chelsea (2-1), and Bournemouth (1-0) have shown a side struggling for spark and lacking end product. With Bournemouth and Brighton also ahead in the table, the Cottagers now need results to go their way elsewhere – and must win out themselves – to even have a shot at eighth.
Brentford to Win – With four consecutive victories and Fulham fading, the value is clearly on the home side, especially given their strong goal return at the Gtech.
Both Teams to Score – Yes – Fulham have scored in 4 of their last 5 despite poor results, and BTTS landed in their previous head-to-head.
Over 2.5 Goals – Brentford’s attacking momentum, plus Fulham’s defensive lapses, point toward a lively contest.
Anytime Scorer: Yoane Wissa – He’s been heavily involved in recent games and could exploit Fulham’s flanks.
Correct Score Prediction: Brentford 2-1 Fulham – Brentford are likely to control the tempo, but Fulham still carry enough threat to get on the board.
Brentford are ending the season with a real sense of purpose, while Fulham look like a side whose campaign has fizzled out. With European qualification in reach, expect the Bees to push the tempo and grind out another valuable three points.
Best Bet: Brentford to Win & BTTS – a strong combo with value.
