Arsenal dominated for large parts of the first-half and took a deserved lead through Kai Havertz’s lobbed finish. It came from a hopeful ball forward by Jurrien Timber, which was not dealt with properly by Lewis Dunk and Bukayo Saka was able to break clear and set up Havertz.
Albion, who were often pinned in their own box, would have considered themselves fortunate to have only been a goal down at half-time.
However, things quickly went wrong for Arsenal.
In a dramatic start to the second-half, Declan Rice was sent off for a second-bookable offence. It appeared Joel Veltman was set to be in trouble for kicking out at Rice but the Dutchman had his eyes on the ball, which was knocked out of play by the Arsenal midfielder.
The visitors took full advantage with Joao Pedro grabbing an equaliser from close range after Yankuba Minteh’s shot was saved. Minteh was brilliantly played in behind the defence by Lewis Dunk.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Arsenal were still a huge threat – buoyed on by a raucous home crowd. Bart Verbruggen was forced into two brilliant saves to deny Havertz and Saka from point-blank range.
As the clock ticked down, the Seagulls looked the most likely team to find a winner but both sides had to settle for a point – which maintains Fabian Hurzeler’s unbeaten start as Brighton’s manager.
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5. Lewis Dunk - 7
Vital block from Ben White’s shot as Arsenal piled on the pressure early on. Poor defending to deal with hopeful punt up the field and Saka turned away to set up Havertz for the opener. Redeemed himself with brilliant through-ball which led to the goal. Stood firm in crucial moments. Photo: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
6. Jack Hinshelwood - 6
Deployed at left back, he was run ragged by Buyako Saka in the first-half. He was fortunate not to be booked after dragging the England winger down. He settled down in the second half and played some good stuff. Some nice set pieces threatened the Arsenal goal. Photo: BENJAMIN CREMEL/AFP via Getty Images
7. James Milner - N/A
Taken off injured after just 16 minutes as Albion’s injury problems mount Photo: Mike Hewitt / Getty Images
8. Carlos Baleba - 7
Important match for him to solidify his midfield place in absence of Matt O’Riley and Mats Wieffer. Unable to get into the game in the first half but was much better in the second. Slightly delayed a pass to Minteh as Albion bombed forward. Speculative effort late on. Photo: BENJAMIN CREMEL/AFP via Getty Images