Ten-man Brighton run riot in fractious derby
CARNAGE off the pitch, breathtaking action on it. The hatred between rival fans turned ugly before kick-off with violent clashes in Brighton city centre. A few miles away in Falmer, further pandemonium ensued as goals from Glenn Murray, Leon Balogun and Florin Andone secured victory for the Seagulls. A dubious penalty, a straight red card and a sub scoring with his first touch. Brighton went in 3-0 up at half-time, yet it could have been very different. Andros Townsend went close for Palace inside 20 minutes, heading Patrick van Aanholt’s cross narrowly wide. How referee Kevin Friend then thought it was a penalty after Jose Izquierdo fell under James McArthur’s challenge in the 22nd minute is a mystery, with the Scot clearly getting a touch on the ball. Murray made no mistake from the spot, striking home in off the bar. Brighton’s failed penalty shout moments later looked more substantial, James Tomkins recklessly careering into Murray. Home defender Shane Duffy stupidly took his anger out on Van Aanholt, aiming a headbutt at the Dutchman, and was red-carded. Chris Hughton sacrificed midfielder Pascal Gross and brought on central defender Balogun, who scored with his very first touch from Solly March’s corner. Murray then pulled up injured in the 35th minute and was replaced by Andone. Seconds later, the subsitute sped past Tomkins and guided the ball past Wayne Hennessey on the stroke of half-time. Luka Milivojevic reduced the deficit from the spot in the last ten minutes but there was no catching Brighton.