If we didn’t know it already, Brighton have an absolute gem on their hands in Kaoru Mitoma. The Japan international winger was always the player most likely to create and it was his header in the dying moments that sealed three points for Albion against very resolute Bournemouth team. Roberto De Zerbi’s team were the dominant team throughout and continually probed and pressured the visiting defence in search of the winner. It finally arrived against a hard-working Bournemouth team – who were also a danger on the counter attack – as they almost achieved the point they came for. Brighton did previously have their chances with Deniz Undav, who otherwise impressed on a rare start, had a shot blocked and cracked the post within the space of 10 seconds during the first half. Striker Danny Welbeck also missed a fine opportunity in the first half when his close range header from Solly March’s cross went straight to the keeper. Wantaway midfielder Moises Caicedo was given a mostly warm reception when he came on in the second half and there was also a debut for Buonanotte when the January signing came on for Lamptey on 75 minutes.
Here’s how the Brighton players rated...

9. Kaoru Mitoma 9-10
What a gem Albion have on their hands. Always the most likely to create and deserved his winner. He had a slow start but warmed into the game and glided past his defender on numerous occasions. Technically excellent Photo: Mike Hewitt

10. Deniz Undav 7-10
Lively from the start and linked play well. Hit the post on 15 minutes after seeing his initial effort saved. Great cross at the end of the first half that just missed Welbeck. Encouraging display Photo: Mike Hewitt

11. Danny Welbeck 5-10
Missed a fine chance when he headed at the keeper from close range from March's cross. Then inches away from converting Undav's cross at the end of the first half. Replaced by Sarmiento on 57 and immediately had strapping applied to his left leg Photo: Mike Hewitt

12. Caicedo 6-10
The wantaway midfielder came on for Gilmour on 57 minutes and it was a mostly warm reception. Added running power to the Albion midfield late on Photo: Mike Hewitt

