In what was the first competitive Sussex derby between the sides since the FA Cup third round tie in 1992, both sides went toe-to-toe in an end-to-end tussle.
That game ended 5-0 to Albion in a dominant performance but – despite the similar scoreline – it was a mystery, this time, how Crawley didn’t score on the night as Brighton made them pay for a number of huge missed chances.
Albion were clinical when they needed to be – with goals from Simon Adingra, Jeremy Sarmiento, Adam Webster and Portsmouth-bound Mark O’Mahony.
Goals were not the only moments of action – with a number of heated moments. Crawley Town’s Jay Williams was fortunate not to see red for a rash challenge which injured O’Riley just moments into his Brighton debut. Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler was fuming, alongside all the home fans.
Williams was then booked for another late foul on Enciso.
Late on, after Brighton made it 3-0, Hurzeler and his counterpart Scott Lindsey were both booked for arguing.
Things got heated once again, on the pitch this time, as Jack Roles was sent off for a rash challenge on Yasin Ayari. The Brighton players surrounded the Reds midfielder before he saw red.
Here’s how we rated the Brighton and Hove Albion players on the night:
5. Adam Webster - 8
Important blocks. Superb last ditch tackle on Hepburn Murphy as he lined up a shot. A nice moment for the defender, with a header from a corner to put the game beyond doubt. A rare goal for the experienced Albion man. Photo: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
6. Imari Samuels – 7
Quietly went about his business on his first start for the Albion first team. Kept the dangerous Junior Quirtna relatively quiet. Photo: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
7. Matt O'Riley - N/A
Down hurt just five minutes into his debut after a late challenge. Rotten luck for Matt O'Riley who suffers a serious-looking injury just five minutes into his Brighton debut. It came after a challenge by Crawley Town's Jay Williams. O'Riley didn't require a stretcher but he was hobbling heavily and shaking his head as he left the pitch Photo: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
8. Carlos Baleba - 9
Back in midfield after playing at left-back in pre season – and he was superb tonight. Pressed high and didn’t give Crawley any breathing space. Given a warning after a late challenge. A superb defence-splitting pass for the opening goal. Bossed the midfield. Named sponsors' man of the match. He was ours too. Photo: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images