A creditable draw at Stoke saw Brentford take their tally to four points from a possible six in the league, and the cup tie comes as an opportunity to get more minutes in the tank and keep confidence levels high. Southend have failed to win a game so far in League One and following Brentford’s bright start, a ticket to the next round would complete the perfect opening fortnight to the season.
Ollie Watkins felt Stoke were “lucky to get away with a point” on Saturday, with Brentford dominating the play, and the hosts were fortunate to benefit from a defensive mishap for the opening goal. Dean Smith is keen to make amends for that error and this time Brentford are 3/1 to win to nil.
Watkins himself made it two goals in two starts with a cracker against Stoke, and the young forward is at 7/1 to score first. Smith might opt to rotate and give new signings a start, so we’ve also priced Said Benrahma to score first at 7/1. The right winger played with Neal Maupay at Nice, and impressed on his Bees debut, already earning a catchy chant from the stands!
Last season’s League Cup challenge included a 4-1 win against QPR and if you fancy your chances, the same score line against Southend is at a massive 30/1.
Leo’s Prediction: Southend United 0-3 Brentford, available at 17/1.
Leo’s Tip: With six goals in two games, Brentford look sharp up front. The Bees are at 23/4 to win both halves at Southend.