Brighton sweep past Southampton to secure top-seven finish and first-ever European football campaign

Brighton secured a top-seven end and European soccer subsequent season with a 3-1 win over Southampton on the Amex.

Evan Ferguson obtained the opener when Alexis Mac Allister pounced on a unfastened ball and handed to Evan Ferguson who eschewed any consideration of approach and easily blasted his shot by Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy.

Mac Allister discovered Ferguson within the field once more shortly afterwards however a scything sort out from Brazilian defender Lyanco put an finish to the prospect. It additionally threatened to finish the day for each gamers, however after an prolonged remedy break they had been every in a position to proceed.

Premier League

West Ham ship blow to Leeds survival hopes with comeback win

4 HOURS AGO

Ferguson doubled Brighton’s lead with an assured end within the fortieth minute after an excellent interception, run, and cross from Kaoru Mitoma.

Choruses of “we’re all happening a European tour” started to echo across the Amex because the Seagulls continued to dominate.

After the break, Southampton appeared a lot improved and tried to take the sport to Brighton.

Mohamed Elyounoussi gave Saints hope with a glancing header on a wickedly-curling James-Ward Prowse nook within the 58th minute.

Sixty seconds later that they had one other nook, and solely determined defending from Ferguson allowed the Seagulls to clear their traces.

Saints thought that they had their equaliser within the 63rd minute when Theo Walcott raced in behind, badly exposing the excessive Brighton line. The previous Arsenal winger was unhurried in entrance of objective, however a VAR examine overruled the on-field resolution and dominated out the objective for offside.

Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi reacted to his facet’s lack of management by introducing Danny Welbeck rather than Ferguson who appeared disenchanted to be withdrawn.

Pascal Gross restored Brighton’s buffer with a easy near-post end after standing up Joe Aribo within the field.

As time ticked down, Southampton threw on children Kamari Doyle, Dom Ballard and the returning Tino Livramento.

The battle had gone out of the guests and Brighton continued to pour ahead searching for extra objectives earlier than the full-time whistle blew.

Brighton now face champions Manchester Metropolis in midweek earlier than taking over Aston Villa on the ultimate day with fifth place nonetheless a chance because it stands.

Saints, who will formally end backside of the league, welcome Liverpool in subsequent weekend’s finale.