Brighton and Fulham have both been the surprise packages of the Premier League this season and a late goal from visiting substitute Manor Solomon dented Albion’s hopes for European qualification.
As they did against Crystal Palace last week, Albion dominated possession and were the team pressing but they just could not find the decisive opening. Fulham, who were without their injured striker Aleksandar Mitrovic with a “minor injury”, defended well and at times rode their luck before netting their winner with two minutes of normal time remaining following a swift counter.
Albion missed presentable chances through Solly March, Evan Ferguson, Lewis Dunk and Deniz Undav, while substitute Facundo Buonanotte had a goal ruled-out as Undav had strayed offside in the build-up.
It was another frustrating outcome for Brighton who have claimed just one point from their previous two matches when it really should have been six. Albion’s unbeaten record in 2023 ends and Fulham move above Albion into sixth place with 38 points as Albion slip to seventh.
Here’s how the Albion players rated.
9. Gross 6-10
Sound delivery from set-pieces. A controlled performance from the German. He knows when to attack and defend but just could not find that killer pass Photo: Steve Bardens
10. Mitoma 5-10
Looked a bit off the pace against Fulham as he did last week at Palace. Has previously set such high standards and now experiencing a bit of a lull. His touch was poor. Photo: Warren Little
11. Ferguson 6-10
Some good link up play and skilful touches. Cracked an early effort over the bar but was unable to impact the match after the break as Fulham defended in numbers. Replaced by Undav Photo: Warren Little
12. Lamptey 6-10
Failed to test the keeper with his first touch. Did his best to drive Albion forward. Photo: Steve Bardens