The Seagulls drew 1-1 with Burnley after conceding in the dying embers of the game, but there were many positives to be taken despite the late frustration.
1. Maupay with the goalscoring edge
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Summer signing Neal Maupay provided the goalscoring touch for the Seagulls after grabbing his first goal at the Amex this season.
The forward opened the scoring early in the second half with a brilliant acrobatic volley, which was tucked into the far corner beyond the reach of England international Nick Pope.
2. Stats provide reason for optimism
Since Graham Potter’s arrival, an attacking philosophy has been at the forefront of Albion’s new image, and it hasn’t taken long for the players to react to that message.
Against Burnley, Albion boasted 63% possession, a statistic that has been consistent so far this season. After a tame first half for both sides, the Seagulls asserted their dominance in the second having 14 shots on goal overall with seven on target.
The hosts had no shortage of opportunities to put the game to bed before the equaliser, with Maupay, Aaron Connolly and Glenn Murray all coming close to adding to their slender 1-0 lead.
3. Captain Dunk leads by example
Since attaining the armband, Lewis Dunk has continued his pivotal role of marshalling a well-organised Seagulls defence, and his leadership qualities shone through once again.
A last-ditch tackle against Chris Wood as the striker ran through on goal in the dying moments of the first half, epitomised his role at the heart of the Albion’s defence.
Dunk and the rest of the defensive rear guard were unlucky to lose a hard-earned clean sheet after an unstoppable strike from Jeff Hendrick in the 91st minute, which was Burnley’s first shot on target.
4. Burn proves his versatility further up the field
Continuing his fine form following the international break, Dan Burn proved his worth again with an impressive display in more of an unfamiliar position at left wing-back.
In the absence of Martin Montoya, Solly March moved to the right side allowing Burn an opportunity to play in more of an attacking role out on the left side.
The 27-year-old provided an aerial threat from corners and was an important outlet for Mathew Ryan to pick out from goal-kicks. He also created several dangerous situations with long throw-ins launched into the penalty area too.
5. March’s man of the match performance
Solly March received a well-deserved man of the match award against Burnley after the versatile winger provided an assist into the penalty area for Maupay to clinically volley home.
March had been deployed as a left wing-back previously this season after being converted from his natural position higher up the field, but he filled the Montoya-shaped void on the right flank on Saturday, proving just how valuable he can be for the Seagulls this season.