Albion fell to an unfortunate defeat at the hands of Leicester City, with a goal from Ayoze Perez and a controversial VAR penalty from Jamie Vardy, which gave the Foxes all three points. Despite the result, here are five positives from the 2-0 defeat at the Amex.
1. A heroic man-of-the-match performance from Mathew Ryan
The Australian shot-stopper had a magnificent game and acted as Albion’s last line of defence on multiple occasions. Despite conceding two goals, Ryan’s heroics prevented Leicester from extending their lead further within this fixture.
Vardy came close to his first goal of the afternoon just after the hour mark, but a strong hand from the Albion goalkeeper denied the English striker at this attempt. In addition to this, with a swiping right-hand, he cleared the danger after he rushed out to the threatening James Maddison later on.
Ryan continued to showcase his ability when he saved Vardy’s first penalty with a dive to his right-hand side but, unfortunately, Maddison was there to turn in the rebound. Nevertheless, the goal was ruled out for encroachment, via VAR, which resulted in Vardy converting on his second attempt.
2. Composure from Davy Propper
In a difficult afternoon for the Albion, Graham Potter’s men eventually grew into the game as they went onto create a handful of chances towards the tail end of the fixture. An individual who helped transfer the ball from defence to offence with a relative degree of success, was Davy Propper.
The Dutch midfielder had an air of confidence as he received the ball within the heart of the midfield on multiple occasions. In a rather comfortable demeanour, he was able to turn on his back foot with the aim to release the ball into the wide areas, or behind the Leicester defence.
3. The attacking threat that Martin Montoya provides from wide positions
Prior to being replaced by Ezequiel Schelotto, Montoya acted as Albion’s main attacking threat, which made Leicester City full-back Ben Chilwell think twice before making a committed run forward.
Montoya would regularly find himself in open space, within his personal area and his attacking region, and continuously exploited this area when he received the ball.
4. Dan Burn: the third full-back
With Dan Burn occupying the role as the third centre-back, this provided him with the license to venture forward and join the attack. The towering defender could be seen making marauding runs forward and regularly allowing wing-back Solly March to make an overlapping run. Burn’s efforts added a different dynamism to Albion’s attack and, at times, allowed March the opportunity to attack the penalty area.
5. The fans were in fine voice
Prior to Leicester arrival at the Amex, Graham Potter indicated that it would be a tough afternoon for the Albion. Nevertheless, even on a windy and incredibly wet afternoon on the south coast, the Seagulls faithful managed to get behind their side, which is something that Potter will be eternally grateful for.