March 10, (THEWILL)- Brighton and Hove Albion put a humiliating 4-0 defeat against Roma, in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie behind them to bounce back in the English Premier League, on Sunday, securing a slim 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, at the Amex Stadium.
The game’s solitary goal came in the 29th minute when Pascal Gross’ inswinging free-kick caused havoc in the Forest penalty area. Amidst the confusion, Nottingham Forest defender Andrew Omobamidele inadvertently headed the ball into his net, putting Brighton in the lead despite a relatively unconvincing performance.
Nottingham Forest, who are battling to avoid relegation, had their fair share of chances to equalise. Divock Origi squandered a golden opportunity in the first half, while Chris Wood forced a fine save from Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen in the second period. The visitors dominated proceedings after the break, but their profligacy in front of goal ultimately cost them dearly.
The match was not without controversy, as Brighton midfielder Jakub Moder escaped with only a yellow card for a reckless challenge on Neco Williams in the 67th minute. Forest’s players and coaching staff were incensed, believing the Polish international should have been shown a straight red card.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side held on to claim all three points, lifting them to eighth in the EPL table. However, their focus now shifts back to the Europa League, where they face an uphill battle to overturn the four-goal deficit against Roma in the second leg, on Thursday. Despite the unconvincing nature of their victory, Brighton will take confidence from their resilience and determination to claim the win ahead of their daunting European assignmen
