EPL: Brentford Make History with Third Consecutive Away Win at West Ham

West Ham's struggles continued as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Brentford, with Kevin Schade's fourth-minute goal proving the decisive factor.

Brentford secured a historic third consecutive away victory in the Premier League, defeating London rivals West Ham United at the London Stadium. This triumph marked a significant turnaround for the Bees, who had previously endured a nine-match winless streak on the road (D2, L7). Brentford's victory was built on a strong start, as they have often demonstrated this season.

The visitors took just four minutes to break the deadlock, capitalizing on a swift counterattack. Mark Flekken initiated the move by gathering a corner delivery, and the ball eventually found its way to Kevin Schade. Schade's initial shot was diverted by Alphonse Areola's outstretched foot, but he followed up to force the ball over the line and give Brentford a crucial early lead.

Another impressive win for @BrentfordFC in the capital! 🙌#WHUBRE pic.twitter.com/6f5qVDebAS

— Premier League (@premierleague) February 15, 2025

West Ham struggled to gain a foothold in the match, and Brentford appeared likely to double their advantage midway through the first half. Yoanne Wissa thought he had scored, but his effort was ruled out by a narrow offside call, courtesy of a misplaced pass from Lucas Paqueta. Despite their dominance, Brentford were unable to add to their lead before halftime, with Schade striking the near post and Wissa again seeing a goal chalked off due to offside.

Graham Potter's previously unblemished record against Brentford (W5, D1) was under threat after a lackluster first-half display from West Ham. In response, Potter made a triple substitution at halftime, introducing Evan Ferguson, a player he had previously managed at Brighton & Hove Albion. Ferguson almost made an immediate impact, providing a chance for Mohammed Kudus, who unfortunately sent the ball bobbling over the bar.

The introduction of Ferguson and the other substitutes revitalized West Ham, and they began to pose a more significant threat to Brentford's lead. However, the visitors adjusted their approach, adopting a more cautious mindset to protect their advantage. As the match entered its final stages, West Ham's fans would have been heartened by the knowledge that their team had scored in the 70th minute or later in each of their previous seven encounters.

3 points. We go home. pic.twitter.com/xAu8KpAqSH

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 15, 2025

Despite West Ham's improved performance in the second half, Brentford's defense held firm, enabling them to secure a hard-fought victory in the London derby. The win capped an impressive display of resilience from Thomas Frank's side. In contrast, West Ham's struggles continued, with just one win in their last eight games across all competitions (D1, L6). Graham Potter's team remains 16th in the league, although their 10-point cushion over the bottom three provides some reassurance.

The outcome of the match saw neither team change positions in the league table. While West Ham stays 16th, Brentford remains 11th, but their prospects appear more promising, with the top half of the table within reach.