The Seagulls settled for a point at the London Stadium in a game with an improved performance which could be the basis to start to turn Albion’s form and break the rut.
A first half lacking intensity from both sides and no real threat was posed leaving the game open to go either way. Brighton passed the ball around areas in the middle of the pitch and when progressing forward on the edge of the 20 yard box, play would often slow down and sometimes would come to a halt forcing the ball to be played back and often the attack would fizzle out.
In the second half Brighton came out looking to have more intent to their play. They quickly took the lead through Matts Wieffer’s half volley. A cross from Estupinan where Fabianski came to claim but was fairly changed by skipper Lewis Dunk and it fell to Wieffer who smarted side footed it into the empty net to score his first goal for the Albion. It was Matts Wieffer’s best game in a Brighton shirt, he looked assured on the ball and was able to break up play very well. Partnering this with the quality of Baleba it can hopefully solidify the team and if they start games consistently together it could form a platform in allowing the Seagulls to grow this season.
Brighton have to endured a tricky period with no wins in 5 and slipping down to 10th place in the Premier League and were desperate to find a late winner against the Hammers. But despite Albion’s late charge in the match creating 2 huge chances for Ayrai and the biggest chance of the game where Mitoma hit the inside of the post following Minteh’s cross. It seemed as if the lack of confidence was affecting decision making, not taking enough risks and therefore lacking a cutting edge and looking lethargic in parts.
However, the last period of the game was promising for Brighton, as they were able to create numerous chances and this creativity was lacking within previous games. As well as the players being self aware and determined to increase consistency of performances and being able to create high quality chances. Being in a position to put a game to bed-which Albion have lacked this season. Wieffer was discussing the importance of elongating this creativity throughout the game, to be able to turn their form around: ‘Created some good chances, but I think we have to do that the whole game’ (Official Brighton & Hove Albion Youtube). Also it’s encouraging hearing Fabian Hurzeler actively accepting and urging fans to have high expectations and he wants to continuously higher the standards for the club, which gives fans belief that things will change soon.
Added bonus of Joel Veltman being back in the side, always allows the Seagulls to be more solidified and his experience gives assurance to this vastly young and new team. Being able to win fouls and stand up to his duels, he really felt like a missing piece within previous matches despite Lamptey’s impressive performance against Leicester and promising cameo at West Ham. It further highlights how key these types of players are to have in the team to get the right balance.
Looking forward to Brentford, it feels like a game where it’s essential to get the win, therefore the good performance against West Ham was more worthwhile as it was a step in turning Albion’s form around. Only 3 wins in 8 home games, so would be a real boost to get a win over the line and hopefully gain more consistency moving forward.
