Brighton HAFC 2 AEKAthens 3
Brighton’s first-ever European game in the Europa League last night was in every sense a damp squib as they lost and the heavens opened.
Surprisingly Roberto de Zerbi rested Lewis Dunk and Evan Ferguson.
Dunk was particularly missed as the untried combo of Van der Hecke and Igor did not look secure at set pieces.
AEK Athens are the Greek double winners were certainly no mugs and deserved their victory.
Brighton’s goals were scored from penalties by Joao Pedro.
The first he was initially booked for simulation but VAR clearly showed he had been fouled. He duly converted.
AEK Athens were impressive on counter attack and set pieces and for once the Seagulls looked vulnerable.
AEK Athens were regarded as the weakest team in the group which contained Ajax and Marseilles who drew 3-3 yesterday. The Seagulls might still qualify but to do so must field their strongest team.
Sussex CCC are not faring much better.
In the week they were fined and docked 12 points after the fracas on the pitch v Leicestershire.
The small hope we had of promotion has evaporated. The first two days of play at Derbyshire were rained off and yesterday Sussex were dismissed for 100.
