Andrews' team have not won since February – in that time they have collected only five points (only three clubs have a worse record). At home Brentford perform even worse than away. On their own ground the Bees have not won since 7 January (six games in a row), and on three occasions in this spell they have failed to score. Brentford's attack has become too primitive – it is based on long balls into the box, where Igor Thiago battles for the ball.
West Ham United are a much more structured team. Wins over Wolverhampton Wanderers (4:0), Everton (2:1) and a draw with Crystal Palace (0:0) keep the Hammers outside the relegation zone, although the gap to Tottenham Hotspur remains small (two points). Under Nuno, West Ham United have improved defensively – they have conceded only four goals since the start of March (the best figure along with Manchester City and Leeds United).
Betting Tip for the Match
In the last four rounds West Ham United and Brentford have played over 3.5 goals only once each. The bookmakers have inflated the total because the teams' recent matches have been entertaining, but in those games the initiative came from their opponents. Andrews and Nuno favour counter-attacks and set pieces – when they have to dominate the ball, we should not expect bright attacking football. We are going for under 3.5 goals.
Prediction: Under 3.5 goals
Alternative Bet
Better form and greater motivation to secure their place in the Premier League are the factors in favour of the Hammers. Brentford, of course, can still qualify for European competition, but such ambitions have not helped them end a winless run that has already lasted more than a month. West Ham United double chance looks a solid option.
Prediction: West Ham United, double chance