McGoldrick put the Blades in front after 19 minutes after a series of attempted clearances and ricochets allowed the striker to shoot on the turn and wrong-foot goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. It was a messy goal from Brighton’s perspective.
Albion were poor in the first half but improved after the break. Jakub Moder had a goal ruled out by VAR for offside, while Danny Welbeck and Neal Mauapy both missed chances.
Brighton have not scored in their last three matches but remain seven points above the drop with five to play.
Scroll down and click through to see who shone and who struggled for Graham Potter's team.
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Brighton could not find a way past a determined Sheffield United defence at Bramall Lane on Saturday night
. Robert Sanchez 6/10
No chance with David McGoldrick's goal. Good distribution
. Adam Webster 5/10
Poor first touch for United's opening goal and didn't look comfortable in possession throughout
. Lewis Dunk 6/10
Steady at the back and a threat from set pieces but couldn't inspire a fightback
. Joel Veltman 6/10
Played on the left of a defensive trio and one of many Albion players who had a chance to clear in the build up to the opening goal. Good in possession and looked to drive forward when he could
5. Pascal Gross 6/10
Worked hard on the right flank. One lovely cross-field pass with his left foot to set Trossard on his way. Replaced by Jahanbakhsh on 67
6. Yves Bissouma 8/10
Brighton's driving force. Excellent burst forward from midfield to tee up Maupay in the first half. The most lively of the Albion midfield and flashed a second half effort wide after good link up play with Maupay
7. Adam Lallana 6/10
Never stopped trying but just didn't have the influence in the final third that he has at times this season
8. Jakub Moder 6/10
Thought he'd scored his first PL goal for Brighton but his second half effort was chalked off by VAR for offside. Replaced by Connolly on 67