Brighton Deliver Humiliating Thrashing to Aston Villa
Brighton's Premier League campaign kicked off in style as they thrashed Aston Villa 4-0 at the American Express Stadium. The Seagulls got all their goals in the opening 31 minutes, with Victor Lindelof's own goal setting the tone.
Maxim De Cuyper and Jack Hinshelwood both scored twice within a minute of each other to seal the win for Brighton. Villa debutant Joao Gomes was sent off before the break after kicking out at Georginio Rutter, adding to their misery.
Brighton generated 2.96 expected goals from open play in the first half, the most since 2021-22. This embarrassing defeat marks a nightmare season-opener for Unai Emery's side.