Brighton 0 Spurs 1

This was very much an Italian day at the Amex.

Both sets of fans sported the Italian flag: Brighton to welcome new beach coach Roberto de Zerbi to the Amex, Spurs to show gratitude for the improvement under Antonio Conte.

There was also a minute’ s silence as Spurs fitness coach Gian Piero Ventoni had passed away  in midweek.

Spurs took an early lead when Harry Kane headed home from close range.

Brighton’s perennial finishing problem was not helped by poor passing and a resolute, well-organised Spurs defence which held out in a dull second half.

I was particularly impressed by the animation and passion of Conte.

He gesticulated from the edge of his box, living every moment in a smart black puffa jacket whilst micro-coaching the team.

Spurs did a job on us but it’s by no means a disaster for Brighton who are still in sixth place. De Zerbi will need a result at Brentford next Friday.

Watching the game at the stadium I was converting to the “be present” cause in the Great Rust Debate.

This did not last too long as – because of the rail strike – there were no trains back to Brighton Centre. We queued for 30 minutes for the replacement bus which effectively scuttled my plans for the evening.

I had invited a Spurs supporter and he and everyone in the queue – which was well and informatively managed by stewards – remained cheerful.

Less so me, who is not patient and likes things to go to plan.