Five things we learned from Albion's win against Colchester

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Albion progressed into the second round of the EFL Cup with a 4-0 win against Colchester this evening.

Goals from Jamie Murphy (two), Sam Baldock and Elvis Manu took the Seagulls through but what did Brighton fans learn from the match?

1: Steady debuts. New signing Oliver Norwood and youngsters Rob Hunt, Ben White and Sam Adekugbe all enjoyed nice and steady debuts. Particularly pleasing for Albion will be the clean sheet for the young defenders, who played alongside Rohan Ince at the back.

2: Who’s ready to challenge for the first team? The youngsters all looked promising and the lively Manu deserved his goal, while Hughton knows what he’ll get from the likes of Baldock, LuaLua, Murphy and Ince. Holla is well down the pecking order in the battle for a central midfield role and although he played for the first time since January, it is hard to see him getting many minutes unless in cup competitions.

3: Important goal for Baldock. Albion’s number nine only scored four goals last season and started on the bench for the season opener at Derby. A cracking goal like the one he scored will do his confidence the world of good.

4: Safe hands at the back. Maenpaa played just his fourth match for Albion since joining last summer and, although he was rarely troubled, he did what he needed to do well.

5: Man of the match. LuaLua was named the sponsors’ man of the match and enjoyed an impressive outing, particularly in the second half. He set up the first two goals and could have got on the scoresheet too. Albion need to keep the winger fit as he’s a game-changer.It’s also worth mentioning Murphy, who netted twice with two excellent finishes.

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