Brighton and Newcastle United played out an eventful 1-1 draw at the Amex Stadium, a result that left both teams with mixed emotions in their pursuit of European qualification.
The Seagulls struck first in the 28th minute through Yankuba Minteh, who made a statement against his former club.
The Gambian winger cut in from the right flank and rifled a low shot past Nick Pope, with a slight deflection off Dan Burn helping the ball on its way into the net.
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Brighton dominated the first half, limiting Newcastle’s attacking threat and maintaining control through midfield.
However, the second half saw Eddie Howe’s side emerge with renewed energy and urgency. The Magpies began to dictate play and create chances but were left frustrated by a series of contentious (Video Assistant Referee) VAR decisions.
In the 60th minute, Anthony Gordon went down under pressure from Tariq Lamptey, but the foul was deemed to have occurred outside the penalty area.
Eleven minutes later, Joe Willock’s tumble under Jan Paul van Hecke’s challenge was reviewed and ruled as simulation, denying Newcastle a second penalty appeal. The breakthrough finally came in the 86th minute when Mohamed Ayari was penalised for blocking Fabian Schär’s free-kick with an outstretched arm.
Referee consultation with VAR resulted in a spot-kick, and Alexander Isak calmly converted, netting his 23rd Premier League goal of the season to bring Newcastle level.
Despite the equaliser, Newcastle couldn’t complete the comeback. Brighton substitute Facundo Buonanotte squandered a late opportunity to seal all three points, heading wide from close range.
Nevertheless, Roberto De Zerbi’s men surpassed their expected goals tally of 0.62, while Newcastle underwhelmed with a 1.75.
The result leaves Brighton still holding 10th place in the table, while Newcastle remain fourth, anxiously watching Chelsea and preparing for a crucial encounter with Liverpool.
