Brighton and Hove Albion were coming to the weekend’s match against Bolton Wanderers on the back of two goalless draws against QPR and Reading. Hence, there was a necessity for three points for the home team if they were to challenge for at least a play-off place. A game against Bolton provided the best possible solution, as their opposition on the day are currently bottom of the table with victories in the seven matches played. Brighton managed a comfortable 3-1 win over the Championship strugglers much to the delight of manager Oscar Garcia.
Brighton had scored just one goal in the three matches leading up to this match, but they found the back of the net quite comfortably against Bolton. David Lopez’ own goal in the first half gave Bolton an unlikely lead. Brighton were unable to equalise in the first half, but they came out in spectacular fashion in the second 45 minutes. Former Liverpool midfielder Spearing’ own goal cancelled out the Bolton goal, while Inigo Calderon score just two minutes later to give the home team lead in the match. Buckley then made the game safe for Brighton with his goal two minutes later as well.
Hence, Brighton were able to score in the space of just five minutes and take all three points.
“It was a very important win for us. It was important more than anything to get three points after the draws at Reading and QPR. I told the players at half-time that that we needed to be more clinical. We lacked a killer instinct in front of goal despite a lot of pressure in the first half. When you play at home there is more pressure, more expectation, so I am pleased for the players because we have many injury problems and it has made it difficult for us,” said Garcia.