'At least it is never boring with this Brighton team'

History was made at Selhurst Park on Saturday. the only problem being none of it was done by the Albion. Crystal Palace became just the third side since the Premier League came into existence to win a game with only nine players.

In doing so, they secured their first double over Brighton since the 1932-33 season. Given the whole "Seagulls versus Eagles hating each other" only became a thing in the 1970s, you can argue it was Palace's first ever double of the rivalry. Brighton fans of the early 1930s probably did not care much about defeat by Palace.



Just as well, seeing as the 3-0 defeat at Selhurst and 2-0 reversal at the Goldstone Ground took place within seven days. Losing twice to Palace in a week sounds particularly grim. Maybe we should be grateful these two defeats in 2024-25 came four months apart? It also provides another unwanted achievement for the CV of Fabian Hurzeler.

The first Albion manager to lose two league games against Palace for 92 years now sits alongside overseeing the heaviest league defeat in 67 years. On the flip side, Hurzeler has also taken 10 points from the two Manchester clubs, beaten Chelsea in league and FA Cup, and overseen six consecutive wins in all competitions - the first Brighton boss to do so in the top flight. All this suggests that Hurzeler is one of those managers for whom it is sink or swim.

Brighton are either really good and secure fantastic results, or really bad and a total disappointment. There is no middle ground. Which is a bit problematic for a game like Palace away, where most Albion fans would accept a dull draw.

Still, at least it is never boring with this Albion team. Goodness knows what will happen against Leicester next. Find more from Scott McCarthy at We Are Brighton.