Thrilling Comeback Seals a 3–2 Win
Brighton pulled off an exciting turnaround at home with a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Liverpool. The win keeps their chances for a spot in European competition alive, setting up a crucial battle for eighth place. Substitute Jack Hinshelwood delivered the moment of magic by netting a late winner, rescuing a match in which the hosts trailed on two occasions.
Liverpool drew first blood in the ninth minute when forward Harvey Elliott found the net from close range after a well-worked attacking move. The hosts were quick to respond, with midfielder Yasin Ayari leveling the score in the 32nd minute through a precise finish. Just before halftime, Dominik Szoboszlai sent Liverpool into the lead once again with an expertly curved shot that sailed over Brighton’s keeper Bart Verbruggen during added time. The scoreline read 2–1 in favor of the visitors at the break.
After the interval, manager Fabian Huerzeler’s tactical changes began to make an impact. Japan international Kaoru Mitoma came on in the 64th minute and wasted no time in equalizing four minutes later. The winger expertly capitalized on a rebound following a Danny Welbeck effort, sending the ball into the back of the net with a difficult strike. Although Welbeck missed several clear opportunities, Brighton pressed on as Liverpool appeared to show less urgency following their title win on April 28.
When the chance to become the match’s hero presented itself in the 84th minute, the 20-year-old Hinshelwood seized it. A swift pass from Matt O’Riley allowed Hinshelwood to fire home a shot one minute later. An initial offside call led to an extended VAR review, and after careful scrutiny the goal was confirmed, handing Brighton the winning score. The result moves Brighton into eighth place with 58 points from 37 games, placing them three points clear of Brentford and four points ahead of Fulham, while Bournemouth sit just one point behind with a game in hand.
After the match, Hinshelwood reflected on his impact, saying, "Coming off the bench, I aimed to make a noticeable contribution and give all I had on the pitch. The ball fell perfectly into place, and I tapped it in. Waiting on the VAR confirmation was nerve-wracking, but when it came through it felt incredible."
Liverpool’s Elliott stressed a need to remain focused. "We have worked tirelessly this season and must carry the positives from today into our final outing," he commented. With Liverpool set to receive the Premier League trophy at Anfield during their concluding fixture against Crystal Palace – the FA Cup winners – the mood remains one of cautious optimism amid mixed feelings over the game’s outcome.
Brighton are scheduled to face Tottenham Hotspur in their season’s final contest on Sunday, a match that could further boost their hopes for a European campaign should the remaining results favor them.
