Brighton & Hove Albion produced a stunning performance to claim their first-ever Premier League win at Old Trafford, humbling Manchester United 2-1 on the opening weekend of the season. Pascal Gross was the tormentor-in-chief, scoring a first-half brace to give the Seagulls a commanding lead.
Gross opened the scoring with a clinical finish from close range after Danny Welbeck’s cross, then doubled the lead with a composed strike into the top corner following a swift counter-attack. The German midfielder has now scored six of his 19 Premier League goals against Manchester United, more than against any other club.
United pulled one back early in the second half through an Alexis Mac Allister own goal, but Brighton defended resolutely to hold on for a famous victory. The result marks the Seagulls’ first win in 16 visits to Old Trafford in all competitions and continues their impressive recent record against the Red Devils, having also won 4-0 in May.
The defeat was a nightmare start for new United manager Erik ten Hag, whose side lacked cohesion and creativity in front of their home fans. Brighton, meanwhile, executed their game plan perfectly and could have won by a greater margin.
Speaking after the match, Gross said: “I don’t know why I always score against Manchester United, but I’m happy to help the team. We stuck to the game plan and were clinical in front of goal.” Brighton will look to build on this historic win when they host West Ham next weekend.
