Brentford manager Keith Andrews credited halftime calmness — not aggression — as the turning point in his side’s dramatic 3–1 comeback win over Newcastle United.
Harvey Barnes gave Newcastle the lead midway through the first half, but Brentford responded with authority after the interval. Goals from Kevin Schade (56’) and a late Igor Thiago double (78’, 90+5’ pen) sealed three vital points. Newcastle finished with 10 men after Dan Burn received a second yellow card on 73 minutes.
The final stats reflected Brentford’s dominance. The Bees produced 2.64 xG, 15 shots and four big chances, compared to Newcastle’s 0.42 xG and just one big chance. Despite having a slight edge in possession (51%), Newcastle struggled to create — their goalkeeper was forced into four saves, while Brentford’s keeper made none.
“It’s Always About the Reaction”
Andrews was candid about a poor first half but insisted the response came from composure, not panic.
“It’s really disappointing, but that’s football. At halftime I spoke about reactions — good or bad, it’s what you do next. We were calm, we fine-tuned a few things, and that calmness was the key in the second half.”
Pressed on whether increased attacking intensity fueled the turnaround, the Brentford boss doubled down.
“Maybe intensity too, but the calmness was the key. Staying calm without the ball as well. Stopping transitions was a big part. Overall, we were worthy of the win.”
Set-Piece Threat Strikes Again
Brentford’s physical presence and long-throw routines played another decisive role, with Andrews openly praising their effectiveness.
“I thought we could’ve scored one or two more from set pieces. We looked really dangerous — it’s been a weapon for us.”
Their aerial dominance again proved a difference-maker, contributing to the pressure that led Newcastle to unravel defensively.
A Win Built on Control, Not Chaos
The victory lifts Brentford back into mid-table and serves as another statement under Andrews. Despite going behind early, the Bees showed composure and maturity — qualities the manager insisted are becoming trademarks of his team.
The late penalty conversion in stoppage time reflected the confidence Brentford had built across the second half, not a desperate scramble.
Our View — Calmness as a Tactical Weapon
In a league driven by intensity, Brentford won this match by slowing the game down and dictating the rhythm. Rather than chasing the chaos Newcastle tried to create, Andrews restored structure and focus. The result: a commanding, deserved victory rooted in clarity, not panic.
Key Match Stats
- Score: Brentford 3–1 Newcastle
- Scorers: Schade 56’, Thiago 78’ & 90+5’ (pen); Barnes 27’
- Expected Goals: Brentford 2.64 – Newcastle 0.42
- Shots: Brentford 15 – Newcastle 5
- Big Chances: Brentford 4 – Newcastle 1
- Saves: Brentford 0 – Newcastle 4
- Red Card: Dan Burn (2nd yellow, 73’)
What’s Next
Brentford head into the international break with momentum, while Newcastle’s injury issues and lack of attacking progression continue to raise concerns.
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