Danny Welbeck’s first-half strike proved to be the crucial moment as Brighton handed Newcastle their first home defeat in the Premier League since January. The victory lifts the Seagulls into fifth place, while the Magpies remain eighth.
Brighton spent much of the opening half on the defensive, but Welbeck’s sharp instincts turned the tide. The veteran forward, set to turn 34 next month, executed a clever one-two with Georginio Rutter before coolly slotting the ball into the bottom right corner with Brighton’s first attempt on goal. Despite being stretchered off late in the game due to a suspected back injury, Welbeck has now netted five goals in eight league appearances this season.
Brighton’s success was also built on their resolute defending and Newcastle’s wastefulness in front of goal. Eddie Howe’s team created several clear chances, with Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon coming close, but they couldn’t beat Brighton’s goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen, whose solid performance kept the hosts at bay.
