Wycombe v Brentford
Division Two
Saturday 27th November 1999

Brentford and Wycombe both conceded four goals in midweek and are undoubtedly this week's whipping boys. There is no doubt that Ron Noades and Lawrie Sanchez will have worked on their defences in the interim but both sides have enough attacking flair to make this an entertaining match.

Michael Simpson has yet to achieve a consistent level of performance for the Chairboys this season yet the Opta statistics show that he has enough ability to play considerably better. His pass completion is just 62 per cent, but that happens to be one of the best ratings in the Wanderers' squad, and illustrates the problems the side have had all season, where they rank as the most inaccurate passers in Division Two.

Signed from Hereford last season, Gavin Mahon has been far more productive for the Bees. He already has four assists to his name, and has scored twice; most recently in the 4-3 home win over Scunthorpe United. He has dribbled strongly, making 36 runs this season. Simpson has been strong from the flanks and the corner flag, delivering 65 crosses.

Defensively the Brentford man has shined brightest. He has already been responsible for 80 clearances while picking up just one booking. Wycombe's ex-Notts County schemer has committed 22 fouls so far and perhaps needs to focus on his offensive play. He showed last season that he has the skill and creativity to be a jewel in the Adams Park crown, but jewels need to be polished regularly to look their best.


Statistics courtesy of Carling Opta