The international break failed to halt Brighton’s superb start to the season – which has been full of goals – as they followed their 3-1 over Newcastle with another three goals.
Danny Welbeck opened the scoring with yet another goal against his former club. Another player who loves playing against United, Pascal Gross, doubled the hosts’ lead with a classy finish after the break.
This was a killer blow for United, who thought they had levelled the game before half-time when Rasmus Hojlund – making his first start for the club – finished smartly into the corner. But VAR intervened and Marcus Rashford was adjudged to have run the ball out play in the build-up.
The hosts fought for a way back into the game but left gaps for the Seagulls to exploit. Substitute Joao Pedro sent home fans heading for the exit door with a fine finish from Tariq Lamptey’s cross.
But Albion’s wait for a clean sheet goes on as another substitute Hannibal Mejbri brilliantly found the net from distance when the defenders seemed to switch off and give the youngster too much space.
It didn’t matter, though, as Brighton looked the more likely team to add to their advantage and sealed a fine 3-1 victory.
. Manchester United 1-3 Brighton
Danny Welbeck opened the scoring with yet another goal against his former club (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
. Jason Steele – 7
A few comfortable saves but had no chance with Hannibal’s strike from distance Photo: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
. Joel Veltman – 7
A couple of vital blocks, particularly one against Rashford and ball looped onto the crossbar. A couple of late fouls could have earned him a booking Photo: Lewis Storey/Getty Images
1.
Joao Pedro of Brighton & Hove Albion celebrates scoring his team's second goal against Manchester United Photo: Steve Bardens
2. Jason Steele - 7
Will be disappointed not to keep another clean sheet but performed well enough and had little chance with the goal. Verbruggen is expected to be available for the Arsenal game. Photo: Steve Bardens
3. Jack Hinshelwood - 7
Once again played in the left back role and looked comfortable for the most part. Caught out by Diallo's pace and trickery for the equalising goal. Photo: Jan Kruger
4. Lewis Dunk - 7
The skipper defended well and good use of the ball when in possession at the back. A threat at set-pieces. Photo: Steve Bardens