Brentford Triumphs Over Crystal Palace 2-1 Without Star Striker Toney

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Brentford began their 2024-25 Premier League season with a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace, despite Ivan Toney's absence. Yoane Wissa scored the decisive goal in the second half. Toney was left out due to transfer interest, as confirmed by Thomas Frank before the match.

Despite missing their top scorer, Brentford did not struggle. Bryan Mbeumo opened the scoring just before the half-hour mark, cutting onto his left foot and finding the bottom-left corner. Crystal Palace had goals from Eberechi Eze and Odsonne Edouard disallowed in both halves.

The Eagles managed to equalise through an own goal by Ethan Pinnock in the second half. However, Brentford regained control when Wissa scored from close range 14 minutes before full-time, securing the victory and moving them up to fifth place in the early standings.

Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo filled the void left by Toney effectively. Wissa recorded a goal and an assist for the third consecutive Premier League game, a feat last achieved by Riyad Mahrez for Manchester City in December 2021. Mbeumo has been particularly effective against London rivals, with 17 goal involvements since the start of 2021-22.

Frank's pre-match comments about Toney potentially leaving will concern fans. Toney holds Brentford's club record with 36 Premier League goals. However, Wissa and Mbeumo have shown they can step up when needed. Wissa now has 27 Premier League goals for Brentford, while Mbeumo has 23.

The last three players to both score and assist in three consecutive Premier League appearances have all been African: Mohamed Salah (Oct 2021), Riyad Mahrez (Dec 2021), and Yoane Wissa (Aug 2024).

Mbeumo’s performance against London teams is noteworthy. Only Bukayo Saka has more goal involvements in London derbies since the start of the 2021-22 season. Saka has contributed to 26 goals (12 goals, 14 assists), while Mbeumo has been involved in 17 goals (11 goals, six assists).

This victory highlights Brentford's depth and adaptability even without their star striker. The team’s ability to secure points without Toney will be crucial if he leaves during this transfer window.