Long throws are back: how Brentford have mastered this set-piece weapon

Introduction to the resurgence of long throws in football

Long throws have re-emerged as a potent tactical weapon in the Premier League, with Brentford leading the charge. Once famously exploited by Rory Delap at Stoke City, this set-piece strategy is causing renewed havoc in top-flight matches. Brentford’s recent success illustrates how this old-school technique can still offer significant advantages in modern football.

Brentford’s dominance with long throws

Brentford have scored seven goals from long throws since the start of last season, outscoring other Premier League teams by five in this category. Their ability to consistently generate chances from long throw-ins is a testament to their tactical discipline and training. For instance, against Chelsea, Fabio Carvalho’s late equaliser came directly from a Kevin Schade long throw, highlighting the threat they pose.

Brentford’s head coach, Keith Andrews, formerly their set-piece coach, understands the value of this weapon intimately. Having faced Delap’s throws during his playing career, Andrews has incorporated similar chaos-inducing tactics at Brentford. The team created 48 chances worth 7.2 expected goals from long throws last season, clearly demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach.

Key players behind Brentford’s long throw success

Brentford boast several players capable of delivering long throws, including Michael Kayode, Kevin Schade, Mads Jensen, and even defender Ethan Pinnock. This diversity makes it difficult for opponents to predict and defend against their throws. The club’s recruitment, such as signing Kayode from Fiorentina, was also influenced by the player’s ability to contribute to this strategy.

Why long throws are challenging to defend

Defending long throws is notoriously difficult due to the unique nature of the ball’s trajectory and the chaos it creates in the penalty area. Former Wales captain Ashley Williams noted that teams often prepare for corners and free-kicks but neglect long throws, which come at a different angle and speed.

Even managers like Chelsea’s Enzo Maresca admit the challenge, emphasising the importance of not conceding throw-ins near dangerous areas. The unpredictability and physicality of these situations often lead to defensive errors and scoring opportunities.

The tactical evolution and renewed popularity of long throws

Long throws are seeing a renaissance in English football. England manager Thomas Tuchel publicly acknowledged their comeback, praising their tactical value. Premier League data supports this trend, with the average number of long throws into the penalty box increasing from 0.9 per game in 2020-21 to 1.5 in 2024-25.

Liverpool’s investment in specialist throw-in coach Thomas Gronnemark in 2018 emphasises the significance clubs place on optimising this facet of the game. Under his guidance, Liverpool’s throw-in possession rose from 45.4% to 68.4%, moving them from 18th to 1st in the league for this metric.

Statistical impact of long throws in the Premier League

• Increase in long throws landing in the opposition box by 67% over four seasons
• Long throws leading to goals rose from 0.03% in 2020-21 to 0.38% in 2024-25
• Brentford’s seven goals from long throws since last season are five more than any other Premier League team

How other teams are responding to the long throw threat

While Brentford are the masters of long throws, other clubs are recognising their importance. Liverpool’s specialist coaching and the use of long throws by multiple Premier League teams show a wider acceptance of this tactic. This shift is reminiscent of the days when Steve Watson’s somersault throw-ins or Dave Challinor’s powerful launches caused defensive panic.

Teams are now beginning to incorporate defending against long throws into their training regimes, addressing what was once an overlooked aspect of set-piece preparation. This growing focus is likely to increase the tactical complexity and excitement of Premier League games.

Conclusion: Why long throws are a valuable tool in modern football

Long throws provide a unique way to disrupt organised defences by introducing unpredictability and physical presence in the box. Brentford’s success demonstrates that with proper coaching, player selection, and tactical integration, long throws can become a consistent source of goals and chances.

As the Premier League continues to evolve, embracing old-school techniques like the long throw alongside modern tactics offers clubs a competitive edge. For fans intrigued by set-piece strategies, following Brentford’s approach provides fascinating insight into how traditional methods remain relevant.

For further insights into football tactics and updates, you might be interested in our guide on joining the Sky Sports fan club, where football fans share views and discuss strategies like long throws.