Brighton handed Manchester City their second consecutive Premier League defeat on Saturday, securing a narrow 1-0 triumph that moves them within two points of the league leaders. But if that ruling is upheld, they are likely to face a severe points penalty and possible relegation from the English top flight, city have appealed. However, the 10-time English champions know their results on the field may count for little this season unless they can successfully overturn a guilty verdict on more than 100 charges of breaking Premier League financial.
The milestone victory marked third-placed Brighton’s first-ever away win against City on their 18th attempt, bolstering their ambitions of mounting a serious title challenge this season. The Seagulls have never won a major trophy but have already beaten champions Arsenal convincingly this season to show their title credentials.
Manager Fabian Hurzeler’s squad gained swift revenge for their League Cup penalty defeat to City earlier in the week, successfully defending Yasin Ayari’s 11th-minute opening strike at the Etihad Stadium. Hurzeler felt aggrieved at that result after his side twice led at the Etihad and this time held on after Yasin Ayari slotted them into an 11th-minute lead. City won their opening seven league games as Enzo Maresca made a flawless start to the daunting task of succeeding Pep Guardiola.
Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen delivered an exceptional performance to withstand intense pressure from the hosts following the interval, while Jack Hinshelwood narrowly missed extending the lead by hitting the side netting. But the visitors were well worthy of a famous win and could also have added to their lead when Jack Hinshelwood hit the side netting late on.
The defeat leaves Enzo Maresca’s side vulnerable at the summit, opening the door for Arsenal to claim the top spot should they avoid defeat against Liverpool on Sunday.
