Brazilian striker Igor Thiago ended a six-game scoring drought in spectacular fashion, netting a superb hat-trick to lead Brentford to a pulsating 4-2 victory away at Everton on Sunday. The result, a significant statement of intent from Keith Andrews' side, propels the Bees to within just four points of the Premier League's coveted top four positions.
Thiago Ends Drought in Style
The forward had not found the net in the league since late November, but he exploded back into form at Goodison Park. His three expertly-taken goals took his personal tally for the season to an impressive 14 Premier League strikes. That remarkable haul means only the prolific Erling Haaland of Manchester City has scored more in the division this campaign.
Thiago opened the scoring in the first half, capitalising on a defensive error. Everton's James Tarkowski played a poor pass into midfield where Vitaly Janelt intercepted. The German midfielder crossed immediately for Thiago, who cushioned a precise low volley past England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
Brentford Capitalise on Everton Errors
The home side's afternoon went from bad to worse shortly after. A loose backheel from Jack Grealish, on loan from Manchester City, gifted possession to Janelt again. His cross from the right was turned home by Kevin Schade to double the Bees' advantage before the break.
Any hopes of an Everton comeback were extinguished shortly after half-time. Nathan Collins powered in a header from a corner in the 49th minute, a significant moment as it was Brentford's first league goal from a corner this season after 96 attempts. Just two minutes later, Thiago grabbed his second, effectively sealing the three points.
Everton did manage a brief response, with Beto pulling a goal back in the 66th minute. However, Thiago was not to be denied his moment of glory, completing his hat-trick to make it 4-1. A late consolation from Thierno Barry in added time did little to mask a disappointing defensive display from David Moyes' team.
Contrasting Fortunes for Managers
The victory represents another feather in the cap for Brentford head coach Keith Andrews. He matched his biggest win since taking charge, following last weekend's success against Bournemouth. His team's organised and effective performance, built on shrewd recruitment like the signing of Thiago, continues to defy pre-season expectations.
For Everton manager David Moyes, it was a deeply frustrating day. His side had kept four clean sheets in their previous six games but were picked apart. Despite both of his much-criticised strikers, Beto and Barry, finding the net, the heavy defeat highlighted ongoing issues. The performance of big-money signings like 19-year-old Tyler Dibling and the reliability of experienced defender James Tarkowski, at fault for two goals, will be serious concerns.
The result underscores the divergent paths of the two clubs. Brentford's model of intelligent investment and cohesive coaching is delivering results, while Everton, despite their illustrious history, are left looking up at the Bees in the table and pondering what might have been.
