Ryan Praises Albion's Character

Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Mathew Ryan praised the grit and determination within the squad after his dramatic late penalty save ensured the Seagulls played out a 1-1 draw with Stoke City.

Stoke were awarded a rather dubious penalty when Dale Stephens was adjudged to have brought down Jese inside the box, but Ryan made a brilliant two-handed stop to deny the Scotsman from the spot.

He said, “It all happened pretty quickly and looked a bit soft, as it looked like just a dual in the box , but he gave it and I was just fortunate enough to pick the right way and keep it out.

“It was not only my action though, you’ve got to mention the team’s effort today with Lewis Dunk making that tackle afterwards followed by Anthony Knockaert’s clearance straight after.

“It speaks volumes of the character we have with each and every individual in the team. There were a few mixed emotions that we didn’t get the three points, but a point on the road is not too bad. Our attention turns back to the FA Cup.”

Following Saturday’s trip to Staffordshire, Albion host Coventry City before facing a resurgent Swansea City side, at the end of a crucial period of games against teams in the bottom half of the table.

“It’s been well documented how tight the league is this year and coming into the run of games starting with Southampton, we looked at it as a period where we knew it would be vital to pick up as many points as possible.

“We managed to that again, and with a bit more ruthlessness we could’ve come away with more.

“But we showed great team ethic and character. We’re in a good place at the moment and we’ve got two home games coming up which we can hopefully turn into victories.”

The Australian shot-stopper also paid tribute to Jose Izquierdo following another terrific goal, and to Albion’s fans, who packed out The Sharp End.

“I am not sure how many passes were involved, but there was a nice passage of play and Jose seems to be growing in confidence and his performances are showing that.

“Our supporters were incredible singing the whole game and they always travel in huge numbers away from home. It makes such a big difference, and we’ll see everyone back at the Amex.”