Brighton tried the calm, measured approach in the first half against Arsenal and it did not serve them well, so after the break they went full-throttle instead.
Another German manager, who did quite well in the Premier League, called it heavy metal football. Hurzeler prefers the term “our identity” or “our process.” It doesn’t quite have the same ring but when it works, it’s hard to deal with – as Tottenham, Manchester United, Newcastle and Manchester City have already found out this season. The problem for Hurzeler has been delivering that on a regular basis, as draws against Wolves, Ipswich, Leicester and Southampton demonstrate.
Arsenal were so comfortable in the first half at the Amex Stadium, it was quite hard for home fans to watch. It was little surprise when the visitors took the lead on 16 minutes as Ethan Nwaneri’s shot squeezed under the body of Bart Verbruggen. Brighton laboured to halftime with Simon Adingra’s wayward effort from 10 yards the best they had to show.
Brajan Gruda and Matt O’Riley were replaced by Georginio Rutter and Yankuba Minteh but most importantly energy came on for lethargy, epitomised by the excellent Joao Pedro, who was skipper for the day due to another ‘minor’ calf injury to Lewis Dunk.
It was only right that Pedro hauled Brighton back as he won and converted a disputed 61st minute penalty after he collided with William Saliba. Despite their best efforts, Brighton failed to find a winner – they remain winless in eight – but the second half gives them a clearer direction of travel. Here’s how they rated…
5. Jan Paul van Hecke - 7
Defended soundly and continues to deliver consistent performances that makes him a serious contender for Albion’s player of the year already. Dealt well with the in-form Jesus. Photo: Stuart MacFarlane
6. Pervis Estupinian - 6
Returned after illness and the Ecuadorian had a tough time up against the lively Nwaneri in the first half. Combative in the second half and left his mark on Declan Rice and Leo Trossard. Photo: Stuart MacFarlane
7. Matt O'Riley - 6
An encouraging performance as the attacking midfielder. Offers a calmer presence than Julio Enciso in the No 10 role. Set-up Adingra for his first half chance. Thought he played well and surprised to see him hooked at halftime. Photo: Mike Hewitt
8. Carlos Beleba - 7
Started extremely well but faded as the first half wore on. Loves playing against the big teams but just didn't quite have the impact he would have wanted against a very organised midfield. Photo: GLYN KIRK