Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen emerged as the dramatic hero in stoppage time, saving a penalty to secure a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Brentford at the Amex Stadium.
Dramatic Finale at the Amex
The Seagulls appeared destined for disappointment in manager Fabian Hurzeler's 50th match in charge after falling behind to Igor Thiago's first-half penalty. The Brazilian forward had given the visitors the lead from the spot with a cool finish before the break.
Brighton's fortunes changed in the 71st minute when Danny Welbeck equalised, scoring shortly after missing out on an England recall this month. The goal ignited the home crowd and set up a grandstand finish.
The turnaround was completed with just six minutes remaining as substitute Jack Hinshelwood put Brighton ahead, sending the home supporters into raptures.
Verbruggen's Moment of Glory
Further drama unfolded deep into stoppage time when referee Chris Kavanagh awarded Brentford a penalty after Maxim De Cuyper was adjudged to have held onto Kevin Schade.
After a two-minute wait, Thiago stepped up to take his second penalty of the match, but Verbruggen produced a magnificent save, diving at the last moment to deny the Brazilian and preserve Brighton's lead.
The save sparked wild celebrations among Brighton players and fans alike, with the Dutch goalkeeper being mobbed by his teammates after securing only the second penalty save of his career.
Manager Reactions
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler, who watched his milestone fixture from the stands due to a suspension, expressed his confidence in Verbruggen's abilities. "I always have to believe and especially with Bart because I know what he is capable of doing," Hurzeler reflected.
"He is really working hard and timing sometimes you can't learn. He was there in the right moment with a big save and again it is not a surprise because when you see him working, you see him develop, especially this season."
Hurzeler praised his team's character, adding: "The main thing is how we reacted in the second half. How we faced adversity and how my team stuck together. They showed personality, they showed character, and they definitely deserved to win this game."
Brentford manager Keith Andrews admitted his disappointment after appearing set to secure a point. "I was certainly looking for a result and I was fairly confident we could get one," Andrews said.
Defending his penalty taker, Andrews stated: "Thiago has been immense for us this season so there is no blame attached to him. He is scoring a lot of goals, his confidence is flowing, so it would have been difficult" to consider an alternative penalty taker.
The victory provides Brighton with a significant boost as they continue their Premier League campaign, with Verbruggen's heroics ensuring three precious points remained on the south coast.
