Swansea Vs Brentford - League One Preview: 17th March 2006

Last updated : 16 March 2006 By Smallsy
Two giants of the league collide tommorow night in a clash which will be eagerly watched by fans of Colchester, Southend and Huddersfield as their chances of automatic promotion could be changeable if results go their way.


Impressive managers Kenny Jacket and Martin Allen are faced with the challenge of going for broke, knowing that the side who loses will probably have to settle for a playoff place if they want to make the Championship in 2006/07.

Team News - Courtesy of bbc.co.uk

Swansea welcome back Rory Fallon and Tom Williams who were cup-tied for the midweek LDV Vans Trophy match. Lee Trundle should replace either Leon Knight or Adebayo Akinfenwa, Keith Lowe has been declared fit but midfielder Kevin McLeod is unlikely to feature.

Brentford are likely to hand a debut to Jamie Smith who has moved to the Bees on a month's loan from Bristol City. The defender joined as cover for Kevin O'Connor who has an ankle injury, while Oli Skulason is closing on a return.

Current form

Despite being unbeaten in nine games, five of which have been at home, Swansea have also drawn four of their last six games. Gaining Cardiff glory with the LDV Van's trophy has been the home side's only successes in the past month.

Led by Lee Trundle the side have been scoring goals but failing to score three points, something which they will be looking to reverse in front of the TV cameras in Wales.

On the other side of the coin the Bees have seen a recent upturn in their form. With two victories in two last week against Yeovil and Barnsley, the last time they slipped up away was at leaders Southend over the festive period.

Away from the cup the Bees form has been quality only losing to Port Vale and the aforementioned game with Southend in 2006.

Key Player - Swansea
Undoubtably Lee Trundle is the Swan's best player but it may be the supply line to him which is key in tomorrow's game. Andy Robbinson may be a key factor in Swansea's play and his passing will have to be at it's best if they want to break the tough Bee's defensive line. His runs from deep will also need to be watched by Sodje and Turner who's defense is key to the Brentford win.

Key Player - Brentford
Lloyd Owusu has just hit form again after a dry spell for the away side and it may be his goals which carry them up through the last ten games this season. Swansea's quality up front is undoubtable and it may be a question of who finishes their chances better that coem out on top, therefore the Bees experienced striker must be allowed to get into goalscoring oppertunities but also take them when he is in the area.

Key Factors - Swansea
Controlling the tempo
Defending from the front
Midfield dominence

Key Factors - Brentford
Taking their chances
Defending well
Not conceeding in the first twenty minutes

Match Prediction
Everything looks all set up for a roaring game at the White Rock and without doubt it will be a close encounter. Both sides will have to be on top of their game as without being winner take all it isnt far off, a draw would be good for either side but I feel the home side will nick it 3-2.