Brighton were knocked out of the FA Cup in cruel fashion as they lost to Nottingham Forest on penalties after the scores finished 0-0 after extra-time.
Goalkeeper Matz Sels was the hero for the Forest as he saved penalties from Jack Hinshelwood and Diego Gomez.
The first half was a cagey affair with plenty of tension but little in the way of quality action. Forest were just about the better team and Bart Verbruggen was forced into action to deny Taiwo Awoniyi with his feet.
Brighton’s best moments came when Pervis Estupinan forced an uncomfortable save from Sels, while Carlos Baleba was just off target with a left-footed screamer from the edge of the box.
Georginio turned sharply and flashed one over the bar just after the interval and there was controversy on 65 minutes when Kaoru Mitoma went to ground to challenge Elliott Anderson.
Referee Peter banks awarded a penalty but changed his mind after VAR intervention. A let off for Brighton. The teams could not be separated and extra-time was required. Brighton’s best moment in extra time saw Diego Gomez power a header towards the top corner which which brilliantly saved by Sels.
Joao Pedro had an effort on 118 minutes ruled out as Pervis Estupinan had strayed offside in build up. Sels then broke Albion hearts in the shootout. Here’s how they rated...
1. Bart Verbruggen 7
The Dutch stopper saved with his feet on 15 minutes to deny Awoniyi and then again just after the break to keep out Gibbs-White. Impressive display but out of luck in the shootout. Photo: GLYN KIRK
2. Jack Hinshelwood 7
Played at right back and solid enough. Powered a decent header just wide on 56 minutes but defended well throughout. Especially against Hudson-Odoi late on. Gutted for him with the penalty. Photo: Mike Hewitt
3. Adam Webster 7
Another very good performance from Webster who quite rightly kept his place in the team despite Dunk's return to fitness. He was however replaced by Dunk for extra time after he suffered a hamstring injury. Photo: Mike Hewitt
4. Jan Paul Van Hecke 8
Brighton’s best player and enjoyed his first half tussle with Awoniyi. A serious contender for player of the season. Photo: Mike Hewitt