A L B I O N B U L L E T I N ( 6 )
( featuring the Newcastle United (21/9), Aston Villa (25/9), Chelsea
(28/9) and Tottenham Hotspur (5/10) games )
21 SEPTEMBER 2019 - NEWCASTLE UNITED 0 BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 0
- PREMIER LEAGUE - at ST. JAMES' PARK, NEWCASTLE.
For the sixth match of their Premier League season sixteenth-placed Albion (5 points from
5 games) made the long trek to the North East to take on eighteenth-placed Newcastle
United (4 points from 5 games) at St. James' Park.
Albion Head Coach Graham Potter made three changes to his starting line-up from the team
which drew 1-1 with Burnley at the Amex on the 14 September 2019, with Martin Montoya,
Steven Alzate and Aaron Mooy coming in for Shane Duffy, Solly March (injured) and Glenn
Murray. It was 21 year-old Alzate's Premier League debut for the Albion and Aaron Mooy's
first Premier League start for the Albion.
Magpies new Manager Steve Bruce made one change to his starting line-up from the
Newcastle team which had lost 1-3 at Liverpool on the 14 September, with Javier Manquillo
replacing Emil Krafth at right full-back. The Magpies in their first five games in the Premier
League this season had made an uninspiring start with the exception of an excellent 1-0 win
at Tottenham Hotspur with new £40 million Brazilian striker Joelinton scoring the winner.
In the corresponding fixture last season at St. James' Park on the 20 October 2018, the
Albion ran out 1-0 winners with the deciding goal being scored by Beram Kayal on 29
minutes. The Seagulls line-up at St. James' Park on the 20 October 2018 was (4-4-1-1):-
Mathew Ryan; Bruno Saltor (Capt) (Bernardo 68), Shane Duffy, Lewis Dunk, Gaetan Bong;
Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Dale Stephens, Beram Kayal, Jose Izquierdo (Yves Bissouma 80);
Solly March; Glenn Murray (Jurgen Locadia 16). Subs not used: David Button (G/K),
Leon Balogun, Anthony Knockaert, Florin Andone.
With thousands of unoccupied seats at a usually full St. James' Park it was the Albion who
were the superior team in the first-half. Neal Maupay's close-range shot was kept out by
Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. The lively debutant Steven Alzate then headed
home a cross from Pascal Gross but his effort was correctly ruled offside by Referee
Martin Atkinson. Lewis Dunk went ever so close to giving the Albion the lead but his header
from a corner hit the top of the bar and then Aaron Mooy sent a shot wide after some good
work by Davy Propper. A first-half dominated by the Seagulls but they had again failed to
convert the chances they had created. Newcastle left the field to a chorus of boos from
their supporters. Half-time 0-0.
The second-half continued in the same vein as the first as Maupay and then Gross shot
over when well-placed. Albion keeper Mathew Ryan was then called into action, making
a fine save to keep out a Miguel Almiron shot. Albion substitute Aaron Connolly went
close to putting the Seagulls ahead when his goal-bound lob was acrobatically cleared
off the line by Magpies defender Fabian Schar. On 82 minutes local hero Andy Carroll
replaced Jetro Willems for his second Newcastle debut. The last action of the game saw
Albion substitute Yves Bissouma try his luck from distance but his low drive was kept out
by keeper Dubravka. Albion's defensive unit easily held out against a late rally by
Newcastle to snatch an undeserved winner. At the final whistle the home side left the field
to boos whilst the Albion reflected on the two points which had got away. Final-score 0-0.
The Albion had 16 attempts at goal, with 3 on target and won 3 corners, free-kicks
conceded - 13. Newcastle had 11 attempts at goal, with 4 on target and won 5 corners,
free-kicks conceded - 12.
VERDICT - Second Premier League game running and another two points thrown away.
This season the battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League will be more intense
than ever and the Seagulls need to start converting their chances. A plus for the Albion
has been the way Under-23 players Aaron Connolly and Steven Alzate have adapted to
playing in the Premier League.
Albion line-up (3-4-3):- Mathew Ryan; Adam Webster, Lewis Dunk (Capt), Dan Burn;
Martin Montoya, Dale Stephens, Davy Propper, Steven Alzate; Pascal Gross (Gaetan
Bong 81), Aaron Mooy (Aaron Connolly 70), Neal Maupay (Yves Bissouma 82). Subs
not used: David Button (G/K), Shane Duffy, Tudor Balute, Glenn Murray.
Newcastle United line-up (3-4-2-1):- Martin Dubravka; Fabian Schar, Jamaal Lascelles
(Capt), Paul Dummett; Javier Manquillo, Isaac Hayden, Jonjo Shelvey (Ki Sung-Yeung 73),
Jetro Williams (Andy Carroll 82); Miguel Almiron (Allan Saint-Maximin 73), Christian
Atsu; Joelinton. Subs not used: Karl Darlow (G/K), Federico Fernandez, Emil Krafth,
Yashinon Muto.
Referee: Martin Atkinson (West Yorkshire).
Yellow Cards: Albion: 1 - Lewis Dunk. Newcastle United: 2 - Javier Manquillo,
Christian Atsu.
Possession: Albion - 71%. Newcastle United - 29%.
Attendance: 43316 (including 1233 Albion fans).
25 SEPTEMBER 2019 - BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 1 (Haydon Roberts 1 -
61 minutes) ASTON VILLA 3 (Jota 1 - 22 minutes, Conor Hourihane 1 - 33
minutes, Jack Grealish 1 - 77 minutes) - CARABAO CUP, THIRD ROUND -
at the AMERICAN EXPRESS COMMUNITY STADIUM, FALMER.
As in the Second Round match at Bristol Rovers (2-1) on the 27 August 2019
Albion Head Coach Graham Potter made eleven changes to his starting line-up
from the 0-0 draw at Newcastle on the 21 September. Potter gave senior debuts
to seven Albion youngsters and the Seagulls substitutes bench comprised six
more youngsters plus experienced goalkeeper Jason Steele.
Aston Villa Manager Dean Smith made nine changes to his starting line-up from
the team which lost 2-3 to 10-man Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on the 22
September. Notwithstanding the number of changes the Villa team was a strong
one and their substitutes bench contained a number of experienced players
including Captain Jack Grealish.
Albion started the game brightly, the main threat to Villa coming from Aaron
Connolly up front. Notwithstanding the battling qualities of the youthful Seagulls
it was the Villa who took the lead on 22 minutes when Jota fired home following a
cross. 0-1. The visitors increased their lead on 33 minutes when Keinan Davis
raced clear before sending in a low cross which was converted by Conor
Hourihane. 0-2. Just prior to the break Haydon Roberts coolly brought the ball
out of defence and found Connolly whose fierce shot crashed against the under-
side of the Villa crossbar. Half-time 0-2.
The second-half started with Albion striving to find a way back into the game and
on 61 minutes they pulled a goal back when Roberts headed home a corner from
Peter Gwargis. 1-2. The Seagulls lost the services of Shane Duffy to injury on 72
minutes. Substitute Jack Grealish clinched the tie for Villa on 77 minutes when a
cross was half-cleared to him and the Villa Captain volleyed the ball home. 1-3.
The Albion youngsters kept going to the end and at the final whistle were clapped
off the field by their supporters. Final-score 1-3.
The Albion had 14 attempts at goal, with 6 on target and won 3 corners, free-kicks
conceded - 7. Villa had 28 attempts at goal, with 10 on target and won 11 corners,
free-kicks conceded - 11.
VERDICT - The result was never really in question and the youngsters gained
invaluable experience against a strong Aston Villa line-up. Stand-out player for
the Albion was 17 year-old central defender Haydon Roberts.
Albion line-up (4-2-3-1):- David Button; Archie Davies, Shane Duffy (Capt)
Romaric Yapi 72), Haydon Roberts, Gaetan Bong; Tudor Baluta, Teddy Jenks
(Jack Spong 82); Alex Cochrane, Peter Gwargis, Taylor Richards; Aaron
Connolly (Ryan Longman 58). Subs not used: Jason Steele (G/K), Jordan Davies,
Warren O'Hora, Bojan Radulovic Samoukovia.
Aston Villa (4-4-2):- Jed Steer; Ahmed Elmohamady (Capt), Ezri Konza, Kortney
Hause, Matt Targett; John McGinn (Jack Grealish 66), Douglas Luiz, Conor
Hourihane, Jota; Keinan Davis, Trezeguet (Jacob Ramsey 80). Subs not used:
Orjan Nyland (G/K), Tyrone Mings, Anwar El Ghazi, Frederic Guilbert, Wesley.
Referee: Graham Scott (Oxfordshire).
Yellow Cards: Albion: 2 - Taylor Richards, Haydon Roberts. Aston Villa: Ezri
Konza.
Possession: Albion - 30%. Aston Villa - 70%.
Attendance: 14982 (including 2305 Aston Villa fans).
28 SEPTEMBER 2019 - CHELSEA 2 (Jorginho 1, penalty - 50 minutes,
Willian 1 - 76 minutes) BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 0 - PREMIER
LEAGUE - at STAMFORD BRIDGE, LONDON S. W.
Following the encouraging 0-0 draw at Newcastle United on the 21 September
fifteenth-placed Seagulls (6 points from 6 games) made the short trip to West
London to meet eleventh-placed Chelsea (8 points from 6 games) at Stamford
Bridge in a Premier League encounter.
Albion Head Coach Graham Potter made one change to his starting line-up
from the Newcastle game, with Yves Bissouma replacing the injured Davy
Propper in midfield. In the previous midweek a very youthful Albion team had
lost 1-3 at home to Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup whilst Chelsea had demolished
Grimsby Town 7-1 at home in the same competition.
Last time out in the Premier League Chelsea had lost 1-2 at home to Liverpool on
the 22 September and for this game new Manager Frank Lampard made three
changes to his starting line-up from the Liverpool game, with Marcos Alonso, Ross
Barkley and Pedro coming in for Emerson (injured), N'Golo Kante (injured) and
Mateo Kovacic.
Last season Seagulls travelled to Stamford Bridge on the 3 April 2019 for a Premier
League encounter with Chelsea. In a one-sided game the Blues ran out easy 3-0
winners with their goals coming from Olivier Giroud (38), Eden Hazard (60) and
Ruben Loftus-Cheek (63). Albion's line-up at Stamford Bridge on the 3 April 2019
was (4-3-3):- Mathew Ryan; Bruno Saltor (Capt), Shane Duffy, Lewis Dunk, Gaetan
Bong; Yves Bissouma, Dale Stephens, Davy Propper; Alireza Jahanbakhsh
(Bernardo 75), Florin Andone (Glenn Murray 70), Solly March (Anthony Knockaert 31).
Subs not used: David Button (G/K), Dan Burn, Beram Kayal, Jose Izquierdo.
In a one-sided first-half it was Albion goalkeeper Mathew Ryan who kept the young
Chelsea side at bay, making fine saves to deny Ross Barkley, Pedro and Tammy
Abraham. At the other end the shot-shy Albion forwards failed to trouble Kepa
Arrizbalaga in the Chelsea goal. Half-time 0-0.
Within five minutes of the re-start the Albion found themselves a goal down as Adam
Webster mis-controlled the ball in his own penalty area, Mason Mount gained control
of the ball whereupon Webster brought the young midfielder down and Referee
Chris Kavanagh unhesitatingly awarded Chelsea a penalty. Up-stepped the Brazilian
Jorginho to slam home the penalty kick. 0-1. In an isolated period of Albion pressure
Dan Burn was unlucky to see his downward header bounce on to the Chelsea crossbar
with keeper Arrizbalaga well beaten. The home side clinched the three points on 76
minutes when Lewis Dunk's misplaced diagonal pass went straight to substitute Callum
Hudson-Odoi who found Willian in space and the Brazilian's well-struck shot deflected
off Burn before the ball nestled in the back of the Albion net. 0-2. Thereafter Chelsea
comfortably played out the remaining minutes for their first home Premier League win
of the season. Final-score 0-2.
Albion had 8 attempts at goal, with 1 on target and won 2 corners, free-kicks conceded
- 13. Chelsea had 24 attempts at goal, with 10 on target and won 5 corners, free-kicks
conceded - 5.
VERDICT - Not one of Albion's better performances, with both of the Chelsea goals
coming from individual errors. One bright spot for the Seagulls was the displays of
youngsters Steven Alzate who played the full game and striker Aaron Connolly, a 65th
minute substitute for Aaron Mooy.
Albion line-up (3-4-3):- Mathew Ryan; Adam Webster, Lewis Dunk (Capt), Dan Burn;
Martin Montoya, Yves Bissouma (Gaetan Bong 46), Dale Stephens, Steven Alzate;
Pascal Gross, Aaron Mooy (Aaron Connolly 65), Neal Maupay (Glenn Murray 79).
Subs not used: David Button (G/K), Ezequiel Schelotto, Tudor Baluta, Alireza
Jahanbakhsh.
Chelsea line-up (4-2-3-1):- Kepa Arrizbalaga; Cesar Azpilicueta (Capt), Andreas
Christensen, Fikayo Tomori, Marcos Alonso; Ross Barkley (Mateo Kovacic 68),
Jorginho; Mason Mount, Pedro (Callum Hudson-Odoi 63), Willian; Tammy Abraham
(Michy Batshuayi 84). Subs not used: Willy Caballero (G/K), Reece James, Marc
Guehi, Christian Pulisic.
Referee: Chris Kavanagh (Lancashire).
Yellow Cards: Albion: 3 - Adam Webster, Steven Alzate, Neal Maupay. Chelsea:
2 - Andreas Christensen, Marcos Alonso.
Possession: Albion - 47%. Chelsea - 53%.
Attendance: 40863 (including 2992 Albion fans).
5 OCTOBER 2019 - BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 3 ( Aaron Connolly 2 -
32 minutes, 65 minutes, Neal Maupay 1 - 3 minutes ) TOTTENHAM
HOTSPUR 0 - PREMIER LEAGUE - at the AMERICAN EXPRESS
COMMUNITY STADIUM, FALMER.
Looking for their first win at the Amex since the 2 March 2019, sixteenth-placed
Albion (6 points from 7 games) welcomed fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur (11
points from 7 games) to the Amex for a Premier League encounter, "live" in
front of the BT Sport cameras.
Graham Potter the Albion Head Coach made one change to his starting line-up
from the Chelsea game, bringing in 19 year-old striker Aaron Connolly for his
first Premier League start in a 4-4-2 formation, in place of Yves Bissouma, who
dropped down to the substitutes bench.
Last time out in the Premier League 10-man Spurs beat Southampton 2-1 at
home on the 28 September and subsequently on the 1 October Spurs lost 2-7
at home to Bayern Munich in a shock defeat in the group stage of the UEFA
Champions League. For this game Manager Mauricio Pochettino made three
changes to his starting line-up from the Southampton game, with Ben Davies,
Eric Dier and Erik Lamela replacing the suspended Serge Aurier, Danny Rose
and Harry Winks.
In the corresponding fixture last season on the 22 September 2018, "live" in
front of the BT Sport cameras, Spurs beat the Albion 2-1, with their goals coming
from Harry Kane (penalty) (42) and Erik Lamela (76) and Anthony Knockaert
(93) scoring a late consolation for the Seagulls. Albion's line-up at the Amex on
the 22 September 2018 was (4-4-1-1):- Mathew Ryan; Martin Montoya, Shane
Duffy, Lewis Dunk (Capt), Gaetan Bong; Anthony Knockaert, Dale Stephens
(Beram Kayal 21), Davy Propper, Solly March (Alireza Jahanbakhsh 73); Yves
Bissouma (Jurgen Locadia 79); Glenn Murray. Subs not used: David Button
(G/K), Bernardo, Leon Balogun, Florin Andone.
In front of a noisy capacity Amex crowd, it was the Albion who took the lead on
3 minutes in sensational fashion. Pascal Gross sent in a superb cross from the
left which Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris dropped under his crossbar and which
enabled the alert Neal Maupay to score with a header. The unfortunate Lloris
fell backwards into the goal dislocating his elbow in the process. After a lengthy
delay the distressed Lloris was stretchered off and replaced by substitute
goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga between the sticks. 1-0. The Seagulls increased
their lead on 32 minutes when Dan Burn sent in an excellent cross from the left
and after keeper Gazzaniga made a fine save from Aaron Connolly's initial shot
the young Irishman reacted quickest to tap the ball home for his first-ever Premier
League goal. 2-0. The Spurs team were now in a state of shock as the superior
Albion took control of the game. Half-time 2-0.
The second-half started with the Albion in the ascendancy and it was no surprise
when they scored a third on 65 minutes and what a delightful goal it was. Lewis Dunk's
beautiful long pass from defence found striker Connolly whose strong run past
defender Toby Alderweireld ended with a low curling shot past keeper Gazzaniga .
An excellent effort and Connolly's second goal on his first start for the Seagulls.
The Albion supporters couldn't believe their eyes as their team usually struggled
to get a result against the Spurs. 3-0. Thereafter Mathew Ryan in the Albion goal
was called upon to make a couple of routine saves and Harry Kane made a hash
of a half-chance. In the end a magnificent and deserved victory for the Seagulls
and they left the field to a standing ovation from their fans. Final-score 3-0.
The Albion had 17 attempts at goal, with 6 on target and won 4 corners, free-kicks
conceded - 11. Spurs had 8 attempts at goal, with 3 on target and won 4 corners,
free-kicks conceded - 7.
VERDICT - A manificent win for the Albion and thoroughly deserved. Every team
member contributed and two-goal Aaron Connolly rightly won the Albion man of the
match award. The Seagulls now need to build on this victory and get some points
in the bank so as to avoid the usual end of season scramble to escape relegation.
Albion line-up (4-4-2):- Mathew Ryan; Martin Montoya, Adam Webster, Lewis
Dunk (Capt), Dan Burn; Pascal Gross, Steven Alzate (Gaetan Bong 88), Dale
Stephens (Glenn Murray 90), Aaron Mooy; Neal Maupay, Aaron Connolly (Yves
Bissouma 80). Subs not used: David Button (G/K), Leon Balogun, Solly March,
Alireza Jahanbakhsh.
Tottenham Hotspur line-up (4-2-3-1):- Hugo Lloris (Capt) (Paulo Gazzaniga 8);
Moussa Sissoko, Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen, Ben Davies; Eric Dier,
Tanguy Ndombele (Harry Winks 46); Christian Eriksen, Erik Lamela, Heung-Min
Son (Lucas Moura 73); Harry Kane. Subs not used: Juan Foyth, Davinson
Sanchez, Oliver Skipp, Dele Alli.
Referee: Jonathan Moss (West Yorkshire).
Yellow Cards: Albion: 2 - Lewis Dunk, Dale Stephens. Tottenham Hotspur:
1 - Eric Dier.
Possession: Albion - 47%. Tottenham Hotspur - 53%.
Match Sponsors (American Express) Albion Man of the Match: Aaron Connolly.
Attendance: 30610.
NEXT GAME:
19 OCTOBER 2019 - ASTON VILLA - AWAY - PREMIER LEAGUE.
For their ninth Premier League game of the season, the Albion travel to the
Midlands to take on league newcomers Aston Villa at Villa Park. Last time
out fifteenth-placed Villa (8 points from 8 games) won 5-1 at Norwich City
so fourteenth-placed Albion (9 points from 8 games) will have their hands
full at Villa Park. Captain Jack Grealish is a stand-out player for the Villa,
who play a 4-3-3 formation, so a draw would be a creditable result for the
Seagulls. The teams met in a Third Round Carabao Cup tie at the Amex
on the 25 September 2019 when a strong Villa team defeated a youthful
Albion side 3-1.
CONTRACT NEWS - The Albion announced on the 4 October 2019 that
Under-23 player Steven Alzate, who has just broken into the Albion first
team has signed a new 4-year contract with the club, effective until June
2023.
Jack Kaye
15 October 2019.
( featuring the Newcastle United (21/9), Aston Villa (25/9), Chelsea
(28/9) and Tottenham Hotspur (5/10) games )
21 SEPTEMBER 2019 - NEWCASTLE UNITED 0 BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 0
- PREMIER LEAGUE - at ST. JAMES' PARK, NEWCASTLE.
For the sixth match of their Premier League season sixteenth-placed Albion (5 points from
5 games) made the long trek to the North East to take on eighteenth-placed Newcastle
United (4 points from 5 games) at St. James' Park.
Albion Head Coach Graham Potter made three changes to his starting line-up from the team
which drew 1-1 with Burnley at the Amex on the 14 September 2019, with Martin Montoya,
Steven Alzate and Aaron Mooy coming in for Shane Duffy, Solly March (injured) and Glenn
Murray. It was 21 year-old Alzate's Premier League debut for the Albion and Aaron Mooy's
first Premier League start for the Albion.
Magpies new Manager Steve Bruce made one change to his starting line-up from the
Newcastle team which had lost 1-3 at Liverpool on the 14 September, with Javier Manquillo
replacing Emil Krafth at right full-back. The Magpies in their first five games in the Premier
League this season had made an uninspiring start with the exception of an excellent 1-0 win
at Tottenham Hotspur with new £40 million Brazilian striker Joelinton scoring the winner.
In the corresponding fixture last season at St. James' Park on the 20 October 2018, the
Albion ran out 1-0 winners with the deciding goal being scored by Beram Kayal on 29
minutes. The Seagulls line-up at St. James' Park on the 20 October 2018 was (4-4-1-1):-
Mathew Ryan; Bruno Saltor (Capt) (Bernardo 68), Shane Duffy, Lewis Dunk, Gaetan Bong;
Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Dale Stephens, Beram Kayal, Jose Izquierdo (Yves Bissouma 80);
Solly March; Glenn Murray (Jurgen Locadia 16). Subs not used: David Button (G/K),
Leon Balogun, Anthony Knockaert, Florin Andone.
With thousands of unoccupied seats at a usually full St. James' Park it was the Albion who
were the superior team in the first-half. Neal Maupay's close-range shot was kept out by
Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. The lively debutant Steven Alzate then headed
home a cross from Pascal Gross but his effort was correctly ruled offside by Referee
Martin Atkinson. Lewis Dunk went ever so close to giving the Albion the lead but his header
from a corner hit the top of the bar and then Aaron Mooy sent a shot wide after some good
work by Davy Propper. A first-half dominated by the Seagulls but they had again failed to
convert the chances they had created. Newcastle left the field to a chorus of boos from
their supporters. Half-time 0-0.
The second-half continued in the same vein as the first as Maupay and then Gross shot
over when well-placed. Albion keeper Mathew Ryan was then called into action, making
a fine save to keep out a Miguel Almiron shot. Albion substitute Aaron Connolly went
close to putting the Seagulls ahead when his goal-bound lob was acrobatically cleared
off the line by Magpies defender Fabian Schar. On 82 minutes local hero Andy Carroll
replaced Jetro Willems for his second Newcastle debut. The last action of the game saw
Albion substitute Yves Bissouma try his luck from distance but his low drive was kept out
by keeper Dubravka. Albion's defensive unit easily held out against a late rally by
Newcastle to snatch an undeserved winner. At the final whistle the home side left the field
to boos whilst the Albion reflected on the two points which had got away. Final-score 0-0.
The Albion had 16 attempts at goal, with 3 on target and won 3 corners, free-kicks
conceded - 13. Newcastle had 11 attempts at goal, with 4 on target and won 5 corners,
free-kicks conceded - 12.
VERDICT - Second Premier League game running and another two points thrown away.
This season the battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League will be more intense
than ever and the Seagulls need to start converting their chances. A plus for the Albion
has been the way Under-23 players Aaron Connolly and Steven Alzate have adapted to
playing in the Premier League.
Albion line-up (3-4-3):- Mathew Ryan; Adam Webster, Lewis Dunk (Capt), Dan Burn;
Martin Montoya, Dale Stephens, Davy Propper, Steven Alzate; Pascal Gross (Gaetan
Bong 81), Aaron Mooy (Aaron Connolly 70), Neal Maupay (Yves Bissouma 82). Subs
not used: David Button (G/K), Shane Duffy, Tudor Balute, Glenn Murray.
Newcastle United line-up (3-4-2-1):- Martin Dubravka; Fabian Schar, Jamaal Lascelles
(Capt), Paul Dummett; Javier Manquillo, Isaac Hayden, Jonjo Shelvey (Ki Sung-Yeung 73),
Jetro Williams (Andy Carroll 82); Miguel Almiron (Allan Saint-Maximin 73), Christian
Atsu; Joelinton. Subs not used: Karl Darlow (G/K), Federico Fernandez, Emil Krafth,
Yashinon Muto.
Referee: Martin Atkinson (West Yorkshire).
Yellow Cards: Albion: 1 - Lewis Dunk. Newcastle United: 2 - Javier Manquillo,
Christian Atsu.
Possession: Albion - 71%. Newcastle United - 29%.
Attendance: 43316 (including 1233 Albion fans).
25 SEPTEMBER 2019 - BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 1 (Haydon Roberts 1 -
61 minutes) ASTON VILLA 3 (Jota 1 - 22 minutes, Conor Hourihane 1 - 33
minutes, Jack Grealish 1 - 77 minutes) - CARABAO CUP, THIRD ROUND -
at the AMERICAN EXPRESS COMMUNITY STADIUM, FALMER.
As in the Second Round match at Bristol Rovers (2-1) on the 27 August 2019
Albion Head Coach Graham Potter made eleven changes to his starting line-up
from the 0-0 draw at Newcastle on the 21 September. Potter gave senior debuts
to seven Albion youngsters and the Seagulls substitutes bench comprised six
more youngsters plus experienced goalkeeper Jason Steele.
Aston Villa Manager Dean Smith made nine changes to his starting line-up from
the team which lost 2-3 to 10-man Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on the 22
September. Notwithstanding the number of changes the Villa team was a strong
one and their substitutes bench contained a number of experienced players
including Captain Jack Grealish.
Albion started the game brightly, the main threat to Villa coming from Aaron
Connolly up front. Notwithstanding the battling qualities of the youthful Seagulls
it was the Villa who took the lead on 22 minutes when Jota fired home following a
cross. 0-1. The visitors increased their lead on 33 minutes when Keinan Davis
raced clear before sending in a low cross which was converted by Conor
Hourihane. 0-2. Just prior to the break Haydon Roberts coolly brought the ball
out of defence and found Connolly whose fierce shot crashed against the under-
side of the Villa crossbar. Half-time 0-2.
The second-half started with Albion striving to find a way back into the game and
on 61 minutes they pulled a goal back when Roberts headed home a corner from
Peter Gwargis. 1-2. The Seagulls lost the services of Shane Duffy to injury on 72
minutes. Substitute Jack Grealish clinched the tie for Villa on 77 minutes when a
cross was half-cleared to him and the Villa Captain volleyed the ball home. 1-3.
The Albion youngsters kept going to the end and at the final whistle were clapped
off the field by their supporters. Final-score 1-3.
The Albion had 14 attempts at goal, with 6 on target and won 3 corners, free-kicks
conceded - 7. Villa had 28 attempts at goal, with 10 on target and won 11 corners,
free-kicks conceded - 11.
VERDICT - The result was never really in question and the youngsters gained
invaluable experience against a strong Aston Villa line-up. Stand-out player for
the Albion was 17 year-old central defender Haydon Roberts.
Albion line-up (4-2-3-1):- David Button; Archie Davies, Shane Duffy (Capt)
Romaric Yapi 72), Haydon Roberts, Gaetan Bong; Tudor Baluta, Teddy Jenks
(Jack Spong 82); Alex Cochrane, Peter Gwargis, Taylor Richards; Aaron
Connolly (Ryan Longman 58). Subs not used: Jason Steele (G/K), Jordan Davies,
Warren O'Hora, Bojan Radulovic Samoukovia.
Aston Villa (4-4-2):- Jed Steer; Ahmed Elmohamady (Capt), Ezri Konza, Kortney
Hause, Matt Targett; John McGinn (Jack Grealish 66), Douglas Luiz, Conor
Hourihane, Jota; Keinan Davis, Trezeguet (Jacob Ramsey 80). Subs not used:
Orjan Nyland (G/K), Tyrone Mings, Anwar El Ghazi, Frederic Guilbert, Wesley.
Referee: Graham Scott (Oxfordshire).
Yellow Cards: Albion: 2 - Taylor Richards, Haydon Roberts. Aston Villa: Ezri
Konza.
Possession: Albion - 30%. Aston Villa - 70%.
Attendance: 14982 (including 2305 Aston Villa fans).
28 SEPTEMBER 2019 - CHELSEA 2 (Jorginho 1, penalty - 50 minutes,
Willian 1 - 76 minutes) BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 0 - PREMIER
LEAGUE - at STAMFORD BRIDGE, LONDON S. W.
Following the encouraging 0-0 draw at Newcastle United on the 21 September
fifteenth-placed Seagulls (6 points from 6 games) made the short trip to West
London to meet eleventh-placed Chelsea (8 points from 6 games) at Stamford
Bridge in a Premier League encounter.
Albion Head Coach Graham Potter made one change to his starting line-up
from the Newcastle game, with Yves Bissouma replacing the injured Davy
Propper in midfield. In the previous midweek a very youthful Albion team had
lost 1-3 at home to Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup whilst Chelsea had demolished
Grimsby Town 7-1 at home in the same competition.
Last time out in the Premier League Chelsea had lost 1-2 at home to Liverpool on
the 22 September and for this game new Manager Frank Lampard made three
changes to his starting line-up from the Liverpool game, with Marcos Alonso, Ross
Barkley and Pedro coming in for Emerson (injured), N'Golo Kante (injured) and
Mateo Kovacic.
Last season Seagulls travelled to Stamford Bridge on the 3 April 2019 for a Premier
League encounter with Chelsea. In a one-sided game the Blues ran out easy 3-0
winners with their goals coming from Olivier Giroud (38), Eden Hazard (60) and
Ruben Loftus-Cheek (63). Albion's line-up at Stamford Bridge on the 3 April 2019
was (4-3-3):- Mathew Ryan; Bruno Saltor (Capt), Shane Duffy, Lewis Dunk, Gaetan
Bong; Yves Bissouma, Dale Stephens, Davy Propper; Alireza Jahanbakhsh
(Bernardo 75), Florin Andone (Glenn Murray 70), Solly March (Anthony Knockaert 31).
Subs not used: David Button (G/K), Dan Burn, Beram Kayal, Jose Izquierdo.
In a one-sided first-half it was Albion goalkeeper Mathew Ryan who kept the young
Chelsea side at bay, making fine saves to deny Ross Barkley, Pedro and Tammy
Abraham. At the other end the shot-shy Albion forwards failed to trouble Kepa
Arrizbalaga in the Chelsea goal. Half-time 0-0.
Within five minutes of the re-start the Albion found themselves a goal down as Adam
Webster mis-controlled the ball in his own penalty area, Mason Mount gained control
of the ball whereupon Webster brought the young midfielder down and Referee
Chris Kavanagh unhesitatingly awarded Chelsea a penalty. Up-stepped the Brazilian
Jorginho to slam home the penalty kick. 0-1. In an isolated period of Albion pressure
Dan Burn was unlucky to see his downward header bounce on to the Chelsea crossbar
with keeper Arrizbalaga well beaten. The home side clinched the three points on 76
minutes when Lewis Dunk's misplaced diagonal pass went straight to substitute Callum
Hudson-Odoi who found Willian in space and the Brazilian's well-struck shot deflected
off Burn before the ball nestled in the back of the Albion net. 0-2. Thereafter Chelsea
comfortably played out the remaining minutes for their first home Premier League win
of the season. Final-score 0-2.
Albion had 8 attempts at goal, with 1 on target and won 2 corners, free-kicks conceded
- 13. Chelsea had 24 attempts at goal, with 10 on target and won 5 corners, free-kicks
conceded - 5.
VERDICT - Not one of Albion's better performances, with both of the Chelsea goals
coming from individual errors. One bright spot for the Seagulls was the displays of
youngsters Steven Alzate who played the full game and striker Aaron Connolly, a 65th
minute substitute for Aaron Mooy.
Albion line-up (3-4-3):- Mathew Ryan; Adam Webster, Lewis Dunk (Capt), Dan Burn;
Martin Montoya, Yves Bissouma (Gaetan Bong 46), Dale Stephens, Steven Alzate;
Pascal Gross, Aaron Mooy (Aaron Connolly 65), Neal Maupay (Glenn Murray 79).
Subs not used: David Button (G/K), Ezequiel Schelotto, Tudor Baluta, Alireza
Jahanbakhsh.
Chelsea line-up (4-2-3-1):- Kepa Arrizbalaga; Cesar Azpilicueta (Capt), Andreas
Christensen, Fikayo Tomori, Marcos Alonso; Ross Barkley (Mateo Kovacic 68),
Jorginho; Mason Mount, Pedro (Callum Hudson-Odoi 63), Willian; Tammy Abraham
(Michy Batshuayi 84). Subs not used: Willy Caballero (G/K), Reece James, Marc
Guehi, Christian Pulisic.
Referee: Chris Kavanagh (Lancashire).
Yellow Cards: Albion: 3 - Adam Webster, Steven Alzate, Neal Maupay. Chelsea:
2 - Andreas Christensen, Marcos Alonso.
Possession: Albion - 47%. Chelsea - 53%.
Attendance: 40863 (including 2992 Albion fans).
5 OCTOBER 2019 - BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 3 ( Aaron Connolly 2 -
32 minutes, 65 minutes, Neal Maupay 1 - 3 minutes ) TOTTENHAM
HOTSPUR 0 - PREMIER LEAGUE - at the AMERICAN EXPRESS
COMMUNITY STADIUM, FALMER.
Looking for their first win at the Amex since the 2 March 2019, sixteenth-placed
Albion (6 points from 7 games) welcomed fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur (11
points from 7 games) to the Amex for a Premier League encounter, "live" in
front of the BT Sport cameras.
Graham Potter the Albion Head Coach made one change to his starting line-up
from the Chelsea game, bringing in 19 year-old striker Aaron Connolly for his
first Premier League start in a 4-4-2 formation, in place of Yves Bissouma, who
dropped down to the substitutes bench.
Last time out in the Premier League 10-man Spurs beat Southampton 2-1 at
home on the 28 September and subsequently on the 1 October Spurs lost 2-7
at home to Bayern Munich in a shock defeat in the group stage of the UEFA
Champions League. For this game Manager Mauricio Pochettino made three
changes to his starting line-up from the Southampton game, with Ben Davies,
Eric Dier and Erik Lamela replacing the suspended Serge Aurier, Danny Rose
and Harry Winks.
In the corresponding fixture last season on the 22 September 2018, "live" in
front of the BT Sport cameras, Spurs beat the Albion 2-1, with their goals coming
from Harry Kane (penalty) (42) and Erik Lamela (76) and Anthony Knockaert
(93) scoring a late consolation for the Seagulls. Albion's line-up at the Amex on
the 22 September 2018 was (4-4-1-1):- Mathew Ryan; Martin Montoya, Shane
Duffy, Lewis Dunk (Capt), Gaetan Bong; Anthony Knockaert, Dale Stephens
(Beram Kayal 21), Davy Propper, Solly March (Alireza Jahanbakhsh 73); Yves
Bissouma (Jurgen Locadia 79); Glenn Murray. Subs not used: David Button
(G/K), Bernardo, Leon Balogun, Florin Andone.
In front of a noisy capacity Amex crowd, it was the Albion who took the lead on
3 minutes in sensational fashion. Pascal Gross sent in a superb cross from the
left which Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris dropped under his crossbar and which
enabled the alert Neal Maupay to score with a header. The unfortunate Lloris
fell backwards into the goal dislocating his elbow in the process. After a lengthy
delay the distressed Lloris was stretchered off and replaced by substitute
goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga between the sticks. 1-0. The Seagulls increased
their lead on 32 minutes when Dan Burn sent in an excellent cross from the left
and after keeper Gazzaniga made a fine save from Aaron Connolly's initial shot
the young Irishman reacted quickest to tap the ball home for his first-ever Premier
League goal. 2-0. The Spurs team were now in a state of shock as the superior
Albion took control of the game. Half-time 2-0.
The second-half started with the Albion in the ascendancy and it was no surprise
when they scored a third on 65 minutes and what a delightful goal it was. Lewis Dunk's
beautiful long pass from defence found striker Connolly whose strong run past
defender Toby Alderweireld ended with a low curling shot past keeper Gazzaniga .
An excellent effort and Connolly's second goal on his first start for the Seagulls.
The Albion supporters couldn't believe their eyes as their team usually struggled
to get a result against the Spurs. 3-0. Thereafter Mathew Ryan in the Albion goal
was called upon to make a couple of routine saves and Harry Kane made a hash
of a half-chance. In the end a magnificent and deserved victory for the Seagulls
and they left the field to a standing ovation from their fans. Final-score 3-0.
The Albion had 17 attempts at goal, with 6 on target and won 4 corners, free-kicks
conceded - 11. Spurs had 8 attempts at goal, with 3 on target and won 4 corners,
free-kicks conceded - 7.
VERDICT - A manificent win for the Albion and thoroughly deserved. Every team
member contributed and two-goal Aaron Connolly rightly won the Albion man of the
match award. The Seagulls now need to build on this victory and get some points
in the bank so as to avoid the usual end of season scramble to escape relegation.
Albion line-up (4-4-2):- Mathew Ryan; Martin Montoya, Adam Webster, Lewis
Dunk (Capt), Dan Burn; Pascal Gross, Steven Alzate (Gaetan Bong 88), Dale
Stephens (Glenn Murray 90), Aaron Mooy; Neal Maupay, Aaron Connolly (Yves
Bissouma 80). Subs not used: David Button (G/K), Leon Balogun, Solly March,
Alireza Jahanbakhsh.
Tottenham Hotspur line-up (4-2-3-1):- Hugo Lloris (Capt) (Paulo Gazzaniga 8);
Moussa Sissoko, Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen, Ben Davies; Eric Dier,
Tanguy Ndombele (Harry Winks 46); Christian Eriksen, Erik Lamela, Heung-Min
Son (Lucas Moura 73); Harry Kane. Subs not used: Juan Foyth, Davinson
Sanchez, Oliver Skipp, Dele Alli.
Referee: Jonathan Moss (West Yorkshire).
Yellow Cards: Albion: 2 - Lewis Dunk, Dale Stephens. Tottenham Hotspur:
1 - Eric Dier.
Possession: Albion - 47%. Tottenham Hotspur - 53%.
Match Sponsors (American Express) Albion Man of the Match: Aaron Connolly.
Attendance: 30610.
NEXT GAME:
19 OCTOBER 2019 - ASTON VILLA - AWAY - PREMIER LEAGUE.
For their ninth Premier League game of the season, the Albion travel to the
Midlands to take on league newcomers Aston Villa at Villa Park. Last time
out fifteenth-placed Villa (8 points from 8 games) won 5-1 at Norwich City
so fourteenth-placed Albion (9 points from 8 games) will have their hands
full at Villa Park. Captain Jack Grealish is a stand-out player for the Villa,
who play a 4-3-3 formation, so a draw would be a creditable result for the
Seagulls. The teams met in a Third Round Carabao Cup tie at the Amex
on the 25 September 2019 when a strong Villa team defeated a youthful
Albion side 3-1.
CONTRACT NEWS - The Albion announced on the 4 October 2019 that
Under-23 player Steven Alzate, who has just broken into the Albion first
team has signed a new 4-year contract with the club, effective until June
2023.
Jack Kaye
15 October 2019.
