Seagulls on song, says Potter

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Head coach delighted as his team put Newcastle to the sword at St James’ Park.

Charlie Hanson

2020-09-20T15:30:00Z

Albion boss Graham Potter.

Graham Potter praised a ‘perfect’ performance as Albion earned their first three points of the Premier League campaign with a convincing 3-0 win at Newcastle United.

Neal Maupay opened the scoring from the penalty spot within the opening five minutes before doubling his tally and Albion’s lead just moments later with a neatly-taken finish from close range.

Connolly netted his fourth Premier League goal of his career in the win over the Magpies.

Aaron Connolly wrapped up the result with a brilliantly taken strike late on, rounding off a lovely team move that secured what was a comfortable victory for the Seagulls.

The only blemish on an otherwise perfect afternoon was the dismissal of Yves Bissouma in the dying embers of the match for a high boot.

Potter said, “We were pretty much perfect apart from the red card at the end – that’s the only thing we can be unhappy about, but three points away from home is fantastic.

“I couldn’t see the challenge from where I was and I haven’t seen it back. I don’t think there will be any intent from Yves, so if it’s violent, it’s violent. But I don’t think he was looking to hurt anybody, he’s not that type of player.”

Although substituted on the hour mark, Tariq Lamptey was a thorn in the side of the Magpies throughout the afternoon, with Potter mesmerised by his performance.

Tariq Lamptey won the penalty late on from which Albion equalised.

“He’s got such pace, he threatens the backline of the defence so well and then he does his own defensive work as well, he’s amazing,” said Potter

“I have spoken about his personality a lot, he just wants to improve and wants to learn, he’s so refreshing to work with.”

The head coach felt every player performed on the day.

“Everybody has been telling me that we’re light up front, but we’ve got some young talent coming through that can get better and improve and we’re obviously pleased for Neal scoring the goals and Aaron alongside him,” added Potter.

“It was a really good team performance, it’s not really fair or right to single anyone out, it was just a good performance with spirit, character and quality.”