Brighton took the lead at the Emirates Stadium when Leandro Trossard turned home a low cross from Enock Mwepu to finish a good move from the visitors.
Arsenal had struggled to create chances but thought they had levelled through a close-range effort from Gabriel Martinelli, only for a lengthy VAR check to cancel out his header.
Brighton doubled their lead through Mwepu’s low drive from the edge of the box following a neat interchange between Trossard and Moises Caicedo.
Dawson said: “He has been brilliant for the whole match and easily the best player on the pitch. His work rate and composure on the ball has been unbelievable.
“Trossard and Caicedo linked well and his cross came across and Mwepu’s finish was excellent. The technique and skill to side-foot beyond Ramsdale on the half volley was something else.
“A really good goal, it’s a long way back for Arsenal and well deserved.”
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9. WATFORD, ENGLAND - APRIL 09: Kalvin Phillips of Leeds United applauds fans after their sides victory during the Premier League match between Watford and Leeds United at Vicarage Road on April 09, 2022 in Watford, England. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images)
West Ham will ‘try again’ with a summer swoop for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips after missing out on a £55 million deal in January. (Alan Nixon) | Getty Images