Roberto De Zerbi’s men had experienced a painful week as they lost on penalties to Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-final last Sunday, swiftly followed by a 3-1 loss against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday.
But they put that to bed in fine style. Brighton went 1-0 ahead in the sixth minute through Deniz Undav’s first Premier League goal. Joel Veltman’s low cross from the right was flicked on by Danny Welbeck and German forward Undav slotted home from the edge of the six-yard box.
Albion doubled their lead to 2-0 in the 13th minute when Pascal Gross fired home following a pass from Julio Enciso after Wolves sloppily conceded possession in midfield.
Gross stretched Brighton’s lead to 3-0 with a stunning 26th-minute volley. The German sprayed a pass to Enciso on the left and, after receiving the ball back, unleashed a dipping strike into the right corner after his first touch looped into the air. Albion stretched their lead to 4-0 shortly before half-time when Welbeck headed home Pervis Estupinan’s left-wing cross. Wolves made three half-time substitutions but Brighton extended their lead to 5-0 shortly after the restart when Welbeck claimed his second by curling home from just outside the D. Undav claimed his second of the game with a delightful dinked finish to make it 6-0 to Brighton.
Here’s how the Albion players rated on a memorable day at the Amex...
5. Pascal Gross 9
Back in his favoured midfield role and a fine goal from Enciso's assist. His second was simply world class Photo: Mike Hewitt
6. Billy Gilmour 8
Did well. A rare chance in the centre of midfield. Played in a deeper and remain disciplined. Good use of the ball. So nearly scored Albion's seventh but his effort flew just wide. Photo: Charlie Crowhurst
7. Julio Enciso 9
Fantastic to watch in the opening exchanges full of confidence and tricks and more importantly, an end product. Looking a real talent and received a standing ovation as he was subbed off on 65 minutes. Photo: Mike Hewitt
8. Danny Welbeck 9
Played in a slightly deeper role and his first half performance was one the best of this season. Linked the play well and deserved his goal. Missed a fine chance to make it 3-0 as well when he side footed over from just outside the box. A nice second goal just after the break. Photo: Mike Hewitt