Enzo Maresca admitted&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chelsea">Chelsea</a>'s dismal 3-0 defeat at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/brighton-and-hove-albion">Brighton</a> was the "worst performance" of his reign as Japan forward Kaoru Mitoma produced a contender for Premier League goal of the season on Friday.
Maresca's hapless side failed to muster a shot on target in their second defeat in the space of seven days at the Amex Stadium.&nbsp;Mitoma scored the winner when Brighton knocked&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/fa-cup">FA Cup</a> fourth round with a 2-1 victory last weekend.
He tormented the Blues again with a breathtaking piece of skill in the first half before Gambia winger Yankuba Minteh netted either side of the interval.
Maresca, in his first season in charge after arriving from Leicester, said this week that&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;"belong" in the Champions League, with the club setting him the target of qualifying within two years.
But&nbsp;Chelsea's third defeat in their last four games in all competitions was another blow to their hopes of finishing in the top four.&nbsp;"I feel pressure always, not only now, but tonight the performance we can say was the worst performance since I arrived," Maresca said.
"With this result the frustration is with everything. We feel really sorry for the fans who came here."
Maresca will have to find a solution to&nbsp;Chelsea's chronically error-prone defence if the fourth-placed Blues, two points ahead of Manchester City and Newcastle, are to achieve their target this term.
"When you play this kind of game, the situation we are in, and you perform in the way we did tonight there are many things you can do better," Maresca said.
"It is not only mentally. When you play these games in the moment we are, where you can make the gap bigger to the ones behind us and you perform like we did tonight, there are many things that we need to do better.
"But we are still fourth and we are still in the race to finish well."&nbsp;Thrashed 7-0 at Nottingham Forest in their previous league game, Brighton had won only two of their previous 12 top-flight matches.
The Seagulls have got back on track at&nbsp;Chelsea's expense with a pair of impressive wins.
<h2>Palmer out of sorts</h2>
After beginning the season with six goals in his first seven league games, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/cole-palmer">Cole Palmer</a> had netted eight times, two from the penalty spot, in the following 17 matches in the competition.
Chelsea&nbsp;had slipped from early title contenders to top four hopefuls since Palmer's red-hot start turned colder.
Palmer again looked out of sorts on the south-coast as he blazed over from the edge of the area, then scuffed wide from Noni Madueke's cross.
Madueke limped off injured moments later to add to&nbsp;Chelsea's growing injury woes.&nbsp;There was worse to come for Maresca in the 27th minute as Brighton took the lead in eye-catching fashion.
Bart Verbruggen's long goal-kick was superbly controlled by Mitoma with a remarkably deft touch as it dropped over his shoulder.&nbsp;That was just the start of Mitoma's magical moment as he adroitly rolled the ball away from&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;defender Trevoh Chalobah and planted a fine low finish into the far corner from the edge of the area.
Chelsea&nbsp;threatened an immediate equaliser but Enzo Fernandez's header from Malo Gusto's cross was ruled out for the midfielder's blatant push.
Even that near miss was a false dawn for&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;as Brighton struck again in the 38th minute.&nbsp;Conceding possession deep into their own half, sloppy&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;were unable to recover as Danny Welbeck teed up Minteh, who evaded Marc Cucurella before drilling home from close-range.
Maresca's men were in disarray at the back and Brighton made it three in the 63rd minute.&nbsp;After&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;appealed in vain for a foul on Levi Colwill by Welbeck, the forward found Minteh and he danced past Cucurella to score with a fierce strike from eight yards.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Football: Mitoma scored the winner when Brighton knocked Chelsea out of the FA Cup fourth round with a 2-1 victory last weekend. Chelsea failed to muster a shot on target

Enzo Maresca admitted Chelsea's dismal 3-0 defeat at Brighton was the "worst performance" of his reign as Japan forward Kaoru Mitoma produced a contender for Premier League goal of the season on Friday. Maresca's hapless side failed to muster a shot on target in their second defeat in the space of seven days at the Amex Stadium. Mitoma scored the winner when Brighton knocked Chelsea out of the FA Cup fourth round with a 2-1 victory last weekend. He tormented the Blues again with a breathtaking piece of skill in the first half before Gambia winger Yankuba Minteh netted either side of the interval. Maresca, in his first season in charge after arriving from Leicester, said this week that Chelsea "belong" in the Champions League, with the club setting him the target of qualifying within two years. But Chelsea's third defeat in their last four games in all competitions was another blow to their hopes of finishing in the top four. "I feel pressure always, not only now, but tonight the performance we can say was the worst performance since I arrived," Maresca said. "With this result the frustration is with everything. We feel really sorry for the fans who came here." Maresca will have to find a solution to Chelsea's chronically error-prone defence if the fourth-placed Blues, two points ahead of Manchester City and Newcastle, are to achieve their target this term. "When you play this kind of game, the situation we are in, and you perform in the way we did tonight there are many things you can do better," Maresca said. "It is not only mentally. When you play these games in the moment we are, where you can make the gap bigger to the ones behind us and you perform like we did tonight, there are many things that we need to do better. "But we are still fourth and we are still in the race to finish well." Thrashed 7-0 at Nottingham Forest in their previous league game, Brighton had won only two of their previous 12 top-flight matches. The Seagulls have got back on track at Chelsea's expense with a pair of impressive wins. Palmer out of sorts After beginning the season with six goals in his first seven league games, Cole Palmer had netted eight times, two from the penalty spot, in the following 17 matches in the competition. Chelsea had slipped from early title contenders to top four hopefuls since Palmer's red-hot start turned colder. Palmer again looked out of sorts on the south-coast as he blazed over from the edge of the area, then scuffed wide from Noni Madueke's cross. Madueke limped off injured moments later to add to Chelsea's growing injury woes. There was worse to come for Maresca in the 27th minute as Brighton took the lead in eye-catching fashion. Bart Verbruggen's long goal-kick was superbly controlled by Mitoma with a remarkably deft touch as it dropped over his shoulder. That was just the start of Mitoma's magical moment as he adroitly rolled the ball away from Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah and planted a fine low finish into the far corner from the edge of the area. Chelsea threatened an immediate equaliser but Enzo Fernandez's header from Malo Gusto's cross was ruled out for the midfielder's blatant push. Even that near miss was a false dawn for Chelsea as Brighton struck again in the 38th minute. Conceding possession deep into their own half, sloppy Chelsea were unable to recover as Danny Welbeck teed up Minteh, who evaded Marc Cucurella before drilling home from close-range. Maresca's men were in disarray at the back and Brighton made it three in the 63rd minute. After Chelsea appealed in vain for a foul on Levi Colwill by Welbeck, the forward found Minteh and he danced past Cucurella to score with a fierce strike from eight yards. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mitoma & Minteh’s magic inspires Brighton to dominating win over Chelsea

Brighton and Hove Albion fans were subjected to further attacks during their torrid trip to the Italian capital, the English club said in a statement on Thursday (Mar 7). The Roma fans threw bottles, coins and lighters at the Brighton fans during the Europa League Round of 16 clash, which the Serie A club won 4-0.

The Brighton fans were camped in the away section of the&nbsp;Stadio Olimpico and despite the strong presence of stewards, Roma Ultras managed to hurl the projectiles.&nbsp;

"We are aware of the bottles, coins and lighters being thrown by home supporters into the away end," a statement from the Premier League club read.

"We have reported to UEFA and Italian Police and requested immediate action be taken."

The incident came hours after two Brighton fans were stabbed and mugged&nbsp;in the Monti neighbourhood of the city by a group of&nbsp;six to seven people wearing masks.

The Brighton fans also had their wallets and identity documents stolen by the attackers who inflicted stab wounds on their legs. The city police said the two men had been admitted to a hospital where they were reported to be "OK".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-psg-fan-stabbed-in-milan-ahead-of-champions-league-group-f-clash-656120">Also read | PSG fan stabbed in Milan ahead of Champions League Group F clash</a>

Officers have said they are looking for the attackers but so far, none of them had been identified.

“We are aware of the incident reported in Italian media last night. Have spoken to both Brighton fans who are OK. We reiterate the advice of the club published on the pre-match info,” Darren Balkham, Brighton’s police liaison officer, wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).

This is not the first instance when&nbsp;fans have been physically assaulted in Italy during a European away match. In November last year, hooded attackers stabbed a Paris Saint-Germain supporter ahead of the French club's Champions League match against AC Milan. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-newcastle-and-psg-fans-clash-ahead-of-champions-league-match-in-paris-663878">Watch | Newcastle United and PSG fans clash ahead of Champions League match in Paris&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Brighton lose in first leg</h2>

Brighton received a reality check on their first sojourn in European football as Roma slapped them with two goals in each half to take the first-leg tie. Manager Roberto De Zerbi said his team played less than 20 per cent of their ability as Roma showed their experience.&nbsp;

“We created a lot of chances - the same perhaps in numbers - but Roma played with a different speed and habits to win the game. It’s the first time Brighton played in the Europa League last 16 – it’s a big level for us but I know we played 20 per cent&nbsp;less than our potential.

The second leg will be played next week on Thursday (Mar 14) as Roma travel to Amex Stadium.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Brighton and Hove Albion fans were subjected to further attacks during their torrid trip to the Italian capital, the English club said in a statement on Thursday (Mar 7).

Brighton and Hove Albion fans were subjected to further attacks during their torrid trip to the Italian capital, the English club said in a statement on Thursday (Mar 7). The Roma fans threw bottles, coins and lighters at the Brighton fans during the Europa League Round of 16 clash, which the Serie A club won 4-0. The Brighton fans were camped in the away section of the Stadio Olimpico and despite the strong presence of stewards, Roma Ultras managed to hurl the projectiles. "We are aware of the bottles, coins and lighters being thrown by home supporters into the away end," a statement from the Premier League club read. "We have reported to UEFA and Italian Police and requested immediate action be taken." The incident came hours after two Brighton fans were stabbed and mugged in the Monti neighbourhood of the city by a group of six to seven people wearing masks. The Brighton fans also had their wallets and identity documents stolen by the attackers who inflicted stab wounds on their legs. The city police said the two men had been admitted to a hospital where they were reported to be "OK". Also read | PSG fan stabbed in Milan ahead of Champions League Group F clash Officers have said they are looking for the attackers but so far, none of them had been identified. “We are aware of the incident reported in Italian media last night. Have spoken to both Brighton fans who are OK. We reiterate the advice of the club published on the pre-match info,” Darren Balkham, Brighton’s police liaison officer, wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). This is not the first instance when fans have been physically assaulted in Italy during a European away match. In November last year, hooded attackers stabbed a Paris Saint-Germain supporter ahead of the French club's Champions League match against AC Milan. Watch | Newcastle United and PSG fans clash ahead of Champions League match in Paris Brighton lose in first leg Brighton received a reality check on their first sojourn in European football as Roma slapped them with two goals in each half to take the first-leg tie. Manager Roberto De Zerbi said his team played less than 20 per cent of their ability as Roma showed their experience. “We created a lot of chances - the same perhaps in numbers - but Roma played with a different speed and habits to win the game. It’s the first time Brighton played in the Europa League last 16 – it’s a big level for us but I know we played 20 per cent less than our potential. The second leg will be played next week on Thursday (Mar 14) as Roma travel to Amex Stadium. (With inputs from agencies)

Brighton fans subject to more attacks after stabbing incident during Europa League trip to Rome

Brighton &amp; Hove Albion ended a seven-match winless run in the Premier League with a shock 2-1 victory at top-four chasing Arsenal on Saturday after Zambian midfielder Enock Mwepu scored one goal and created another.

The result left Arsenal fifth in the table on 54 points, behind Tottenham Hotspur -- who play Aston Villa later -- on goal difference but having now played the same number of games. Brighton moved up to 11th with 37 points.

"It has been a tough week, especially today because we wanted a reaction (to the defeat at Crystal Palace)," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta told the BBC.

"It came in the second half, which is too late; we have to have the courage and personality to play much better and raise the level in the first half.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-everton-boost-survival-hopes-with-1-0-victory-over-manchester-united-469740">Premier League: Everton boost survival hopes with 1-0 victory over Manchester United</a>

"We made it really difficult for ourselves. We were sloppy, we had no purpose to attack, we were really imprecise and didn't want to play forward."

Arteta rejigged the Arsenal starting line-up due to injuries and midfielder Granit Xhaka started at left back, a decision that gave Arsenal no control in midfield and no cohesion in attack in the first half.

Brighton opened the scoring when a long ball found Mwepu on Xhaka's flank and with the Swiss international further upfield, Mwepu found space for a cutback to Leandro Trossard whose curling effort sailed past goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Arsenal thought they had grabbed an equaliser just before the break when Gabriel Martinelli headed home amid a crowd near the goal line, but it was chalked off after VAR spent four minutes looking at replays to rule the Brazilian offside.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/willing-to-discuss-recruitment-plans-with-successor-says-manchester-united-interim-manager-ralf-rangnick-469633">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/willing-to-discuss-recruitment-plans-with-successor-says-manchester-united-interim-manager-ralf-rangnick-469633">Willing to discuss recruitment plans with successor, says Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick</a>

A change in formation gave Arsenal hope in the second half but it was quickly snuffed out when Mwepu drilled a half-volley from the edge of the box into the back of the net.

Martin Odegaard halved the deficit in the 89th minute with a hopeful long-range shot that took a wicked deflection and looped over goalkeeper Robert Sanchez to give Arsenal a lifeline, but Brighton held on.

"I'm glad we won today, we needed the three points. Coming from six defeats is not easy," Mwepu said.

"We really believe in ourselves, we have the right mentality in the group and we showed what we could do today. The gameplan was to win."

Brighton & Hove Albion ended a seven-match winless run in the Premier League with a shock 2-1 victory at top-four chasing Arsenal on Saturday after Zambian midfielder Enock Mwepu scored one goal and created another.

Brighton & Hove Albion ended a seven-match winless run in the Premier League with a shock 2-1 victory at top-four chasing Arsenal on Saturday after Zambian midfielder Enock Mwepu scored one goal and created another. The result left Arsenal fifth in the table on 54 points, behind Tottenham Hotspur -- who play Aston Villa later -- on goal difference but having now played the same number of games. Brighton moved up to 11th with 37 points. "It has been a tough week, especially today because we wanted a reaction (to the defeat at Crystal Palace)," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta told the BBC. "It came in the second half, which is too late; we have to have the courage and personality to play much better and raise the level in the first half. ALSO READ: Premier League: Everton boost survival hopes with 1-0 victory over Manchester United "We made it really difficult for ourselves. We were sloppy, we had no purpose to attack, we were really imprecise and didn't want to play forward." Arteta rejigged the Arsenal starting line-up due to injuries and midfielder Granit Xhaka started at left back, a decision that gave Arsenal no control in midfield and no cohesion in attack in the first half. Brighton opened the scoring when a long ball found Mwepu on Xhaka's flank and with the Swiss international further upfield, Mwepu found space for a cutback to Leandro Trossard whose curling effort sailed past goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. Arsenal thought they had grabbed an equaliser just before the break when Gabriel Martinelli headed home amid a crowd near the goal line, but it was chalked off after VAR spent four minutes looking at replays to rule the Brazilian offside. ALSO READ: Willing to discuss recruitment plans with successor, says Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick A change in formation gave Arsenal hope in the second half but it was quickly snuffed out when Mwepu drilled a half-volley from the edge of the box into the back of the net. Martin Odegaard halved the deficit in the 89th minute with a hopeful long-range shot that took a wicked deflection and looped over goalkeeper Robert Sanchez to give Arsenal a lifeline, but Brighton held on. "I'm glad we won today, we needed the three points. Coming from six defeats is not easy," Mwepu said. "We really believe in ourselves, we have the right mentality in the group and we showed what we could do today. The gameplan was to win."

Premier League: Enock Mwepu, Leandro Trossard star as Brighton stun Arsenal 2-1

Second-half goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino earned Liverpool a 2-0 win at Arsenal that took them within a point of leaders Manchester City in the Premier League.

Liverpool started brightly and it took a strong hand from Aaron Ramsdale to keep out Virgil van Dijk's third-minute header. Arsenal grew in confidence and had good spells of dominance, but a quickfire double shortly after half-time gave Liverpool full control.

Thiago Alcantara's brilliant through-ball played in Jota, who squeezed a shot past Ramsdale at the near post to open the scoring on 54 minutes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-christian-pulisic-cesar-azpilicueta-score-as-chelsea-ease-past-lille-to-enter-quater-finals-463153">Champions League: Christian Pulisic, Cesar Azpilicueta score as Chelsea ease past Lille to enter quater-finals</a>

Eight minutes later Andrew Robertson chased a loose ball and crossed low for substitute Firmino to finish.

A ninth successive league win moves Liverpool on to 69 points. Arsenal stay fourth on 51 points, a point above Manchester United in the top-four race and with two matches in hand.

At Amex Stadium, Harry Kane became the Premier League's all-time top scorer of away goals as Tottenham Hotspur won 2-0 at Brighton and Hove Albion.

Kane's second-half strike took his tally on the road to 95, overtaking Wayne Rooney's total of 94.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-villarreal-knock-juventus-out-with-3-0-victory-to-enter-quarter-finals-463110">Champions League: Villarreal knock Juventus out with 3-0 victory to enter quarter-finals</a>

Spurs had gone ahead on 37 minutes when Dejan Kulusevski's shot took a deflection off Cristian Romero and went in, giving the Argentinian defender his first goal for the club.

Kane then got his record-breaking goal in the 57th minute, running on to a through-ball from Rodrigo Bentancur and firing low past Robert Sanchez.

Second-half goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino earned Liverpool a 2-0 win at Arsenal that took them within a point of leaders Manchester City in the Premier League.

Second-half goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino earned Liverpool a 2-0 win at Arsenal that took them within a point of leaders Manchester City in the Premier League. Liverpool started brightly and it took a strong hand from Aaron Ramsdale to keep out Virgil van Dijk's third-minute header. Arsenal grew in confidence and had good spells of dominance, but a quickfire double shortly after half-time gave Liverpool full control. Thiago Alcantara's brilliant through-ball played in Jota, who squeezed a shot past Ramsdale at the near post to open the scoring on 54 minutes. ALSO READ: Champions League: Christian Pulisic, Cesar Azpilicueta score as Chelsea ease past Lille to enter quater-finals Eight minutes later Andrew Robertson chased a loose ball and crossed low for substitute Firmino to finish. A ninth successive league win moves Liverpool on to 69 points. Arsenal stay fourth on 51 points, a point above Manchester United in the top-four race and with two matches in hand. At Amex Stadium, Harry Kane became the Premier League's all-time top scorer of away goals as Tottenham Hotspur won 2-0 at Brighton and Hove Albion. Kane's second-half strike took his tally on the road to 95, overtaking Wayne Rooney's total of 94. ALSO READ: Champions League: Villarreal knock Juventus out with 3-0 victory to enter quarter-finals Spurs had gone ahead on 37 minutes when Dejan Kulusevski's shot took a deflection off Cristian Romero and went in, giving the Argentinian defender his first goal for the club. Kane then got his record-breaking goal in the 57th minute, running on to a through-ball from Rodrigo Bentancur and firing low past Robert Sanchez.

PL: Liverpool win to narrow gap with toppers Man City; Harry Kane strikes as Spurs ease past Brighton

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz scored in the first half before Mohamed Salah struck from the penalty spot after the hour mark as the team comfortably beat Brighton &amp; Hove Albion 2-0 in the Premier League on Saturday.

Liverpool's win at Brighton's Amex Stadium was their eighth straight victory in the competition as Juergen Klopp's second-placed side cut the gap between themselves and league leaders Manchester City to three points.

City can restore their advantage when they travel to Crystal Palace on Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-board-disqualifies-chelsea-owner-roman-abramovich-as-director-at-club-461679">Premier League board disqualifies Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich as director at club</a>

Diaz put the visitors in front&nbsp;by heading in a pass from Joel Matip before Salah scored from the spot, following a handball by Yves Bissouma, for Liverpool's 2,000th Premier League goal.

It was the Egyptian international's 20th goal of the season.

Liverpool endured some nervy moments towards the end of the match, but goalkeeper Alisson kept out efforts from substitutes Danny Welbeck and Solly March.

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz scored in the first half before Mohamed Salah struck from the penalty spot after the hour mark as the team comfortably beat Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0 in the Premier League on Saturday.

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz scored in the first half before Mohamed Salah struck from the penalty spot after the hour mark as the team comfortably beat Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0 in the Premier League on Saturday. Liverpool's win at Brighton's Amex Stadium was their eighth straight victory in the competition as Juergen Klopp's second-placed side cut the gap between themselves and league leaders Manchester City to three points. City can restore their advantage when they travel to Crystal Palace on Monday. ALSO READ: Premier League board disqualifies Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich as director at club Diaz put the visitors in front by heading in a pass from Joel Matip before Salah scored from the spot, following a handball by Yves Bissouma, for Liverpool's 2,000th Premier League goal. It was the Egyptian international's 20th goal of the season. Liverpool endured some nervy moments towards the end of the match, but goalkeeper Alisson kept out efforts from substitutes Danny Welbeck and Solly March.

Premier League: Luis Diaz, Mohamed Salah strike as Liverpool thrash Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0

Manchester City's centre-backs Ruben Dias and John Stones both struck as the Premier League leaders beat West Ham 2-1 on Saturday, while West Brom enlivened the battle to beat the drop with a controversial 1-0 win over Brighton in which the Seagulls missed two penalties.

Pep Guardiola's men are now 13 points clear thanks to a 20-game winning run in all competitions that has seen them close in on an unprecedented quadruple of trophies.

For the first time in recent weeks, City showed signs of fatigue, though, and needed the dominant centre-back pairing that has been a huge part of their success defensively this season to also make their mark at the other end.

"After 10 or 15 minutes today we realised we were not going to paint anything beautiful," said Guardiola.&nbsp;

"When you play a lot of games - in the league and then the Champions League - this is normal. We were lucky to get all three points."

Kevin De Bruyne made just his second start since returning from a hamstring injury and the Belgian's teasing cross was powered home by Dias for his first City goal since joining from Benfica in September.

City had kept eight clean sheets in their previous 10 league games, but West Ham showed why they are fourth and pushing to edge out the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal to qualify for next season's Champions League.

"I'm really disappointed we didn't get a point," said West Ham boss David Moyes.&nbsp;

"It was a terrific performance. We came here and tried to match a top side - and for long periods we did."

Michail Antonio had already threatened an equaliser by hitting the post before he did level by tapping home Jesse Lingard's mishit shot just before half-time.

But City's determination to keep winning shone through in the second-half as Stones smashed home Riyad Mahrez's pass for the winner on 68 minutes.

<h2>- Blunder costs Brighton -</h2>

West Brom kept their hopes of avoiding the drop alive with just a second win in 13 games under Sam Allardyce in a match overshadowed by a surreal moment of refereeing by Lee Mason that cost Brighton an equaliser.

Kyle Bartley's early header gave West Brom the lead before Pascal Gross and Danny Welbeck both hit the woodwork either side of half-time from the penalty spot for the visitors.

Brighton did have the ball in the net when Lewis Dunk's quickly taken free-kick, after Mason had whistled for it to be taken, caught Sam Johnstone napping.&nbsp;

Mason initially did not award the goal before reversing his decision. However, after reviewing the incident on VAR, the goal was ruled out as the referee changed his mind for a second time.

"It's embarrassing, it's just a horrendous decision," said Dunk. "I said to the ref 'can I take it', he blew his whistle and I took it. I don't think he knew what he was doing."

In a statement, the Premier League said: "Referee Lee Mason has overturned the goal because the whistle had been blown a second time before the ball had crossed the line."

Victory for the Baggies hauls Allardyce's men to within eight points of safety, while Brighton remain just four points clear of the drop zone in 16th.

Newcastle are also now four points clear of the bottom three despite blowing the lead to draw 1-1 at home to Wolves.

Jamaal Lascelles's towering header put the Magpies in front before Ruben Neves equalised for Nuno Espirito Santo's men, who remain in 12th.

Aston Villa coped without the injured Jack Grealish and kept their bid for the top four alive with a 1-0 win at Leeds.

Anwar El Ghazi's early strike moved eighth-placed Villa to within six points of West Ham with two games in hand to come.

Manchester City's centre-backs Ruben Dias and John Stones both struck as the Premier League leaders beat West Ham 2-1 on Saturday, while West Brom enlivened the battle to beat the drop with a controversial 1-0 win over Brighton in which the Seagulls missed two penalties.

Manchester City's centre-backs Ruben Dias and John Stones both struck as the Premier League leaders beat West Ham 2-1 on Saturday, while West Brom enlivened the battle to beat the drop with a controversial 1-0 win over Brighton in which the Seagulls missed two penalties. Pep Guardiola's men are now 13 points clear thanks to a 20-game winning run in all competitions that has seen them close in on an unprecedented quadruple of trophies. For the first time in recent weeks, City showed signs of fatigue, though, and needed the dominant centre-back pairing that has been a huge part of their success defensively this season to also make their mark at the other end. "After 10 or 15 minutes today we realised we were not going to paint anything beautiful," said Guardiola. "When you play a lot of games - in the league and then the Champions League - this is normal. We were lucky to get all three points." Kevin De Bruyne made just his second start since returning from a hamstring injury and the Belgian's teasing cross was powered home by Dias for his first City goal since joining from Benfica in September. City had kept eight clean sheets in their previous 10 league games, but West Ham showed why they are fourth and pushing to edge out the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal to qualify for next season's Champions League. "I'm really disappointed we didn't get a point," said West Ham boss David Moyes. "It was a terrific performance. We came here and tried to match a top side - and for long periods we did." Michail Antonio had already threatened an equaliser by hitting the post before he did level by tapping home Jesse Lingard's mishit shot just before half-time. But City's determination to keep winning shone through in the second-half as Stones smashed home Riyad Mahrez's pass for the winner on 68 minutes. - Blunder costs Brighton - West Brom kept their hopes of avoiding the drop alive with just a second win in 13 games under Sam Allardyce in a match overshadowed by a surreal moment of refereeing by Lee Mason that cost Brighton an equaliser. Kyle Bartley's early header gave West Brom the lead before Pascal Gross and Danny Welbeck both hit the woodwork either side of half-time from the penalty spot for the visitors. Brighton did have the ball in the net when Lewis Dunk's quickly taken free-kick, after Mason had whistled for it to be taken, caught Sam Johnstone napping. Mason initially did not award the goal before reversing his decision. However, after reviewing the incident on VAR, the goal was ruled out as the referee changed his mind for a second time. "It's embarrassing, it's just a horrendous decision," said Dunk. "I said to the ref 'can I take it', he blew his whistle and I took it. I don't think he knew what he was doing." In a statement, the Premier League said: "Referee Lee Mason has overturned the goal because the whistle had been blown a second time before the ball had crossed the line." Victory for the Baggies hauls Allardyce's men to within eight points of safety, while Brighton remain just four points clear of the drop zone in 16th. Newcastle are also now four points clear of the bottom three despite blowing the lead to draw 1-1 at home to Wolves. Jamaal Lascelles's towering header put the Magpies in front before Ruben Neves equalised for Nuno Espirito Santo's men, who remain in 12th. Aston Villa coped without the injured Jack Grealish and kept their bid for the top four alive with a 1-0 win at Leeds. Anwar El Ghazi's early strike moved eighth-placed Villa to within six points of West Ham with two games in hand to come.

Man City stride clear, Brighton pay the penalty amid refereeing chaos

Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title.

Jurgen Klopp's men appeared to have turned the corner with impressive victories at Tottenham and West Ham after a five-match winless run.

But defeat to lowly Brighton at Anfield leaves them in fourth place, seven points behind leaders Manchester City, who also have a game in hand and look increasingly likely to win their third title in four years.

Liverpool's 68-game unbeaten home run in the Premier League was ended by Burnley last month and they have now lost consecutive league games at Anfield for the first time since 2012.

Troublingly for Klopp, his side have failed to score in three consecutive home league games for the first time since 1984.

Graham Potter's men executed their game plan to perfection, snuffing out Liverpool's dangermen and offering a threat up front.&nbsp;

The only goal of the game came in the 56th minute courtesy of a Steven Alzate strike.

Klopp, who must prepare his team for the daunting task of facing Pep Guardiola's Manchester City on Sunday, said his team were not mentally fresh.

"The only explanation now is that we are a fatigued team, mentally more or less," he told BT Sport. "That leads to not the maximum freshness in your legs.

"We had our moments but they deserved to win."

He added:&nbsp;"The only thing we can do is use the things that happen and learn from them. The solution is always the players. It has been a tough week and tonight it was not enough. City are flying and we have to find solutions."

<h2>- Defensive crisis -</h2>

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was again drafted into central defence in the absence of any of the club's senior centre-backs, with new signing Ben Davies on the substitutes' bench.

Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent due to illness, meaning Caoimhin Kelleher made only his second Premier League appearance, and forward Sadio Mane was also missing.

Liverpool enjoyed the bulk of possession in the early stages but in-form Brighton were organised at the back and pushed forward when they could.

Mohamed Salah had a golden chance to give Liverpool the lead in the opening minutes when he collected a long ball from Henderson but put his shot over the bar.

Salah offered an occasional threat down the right but Liverpool looked short of ideas in the final third when faced with the massed blue shirts of Brighton.

The in-form visitors had a chance to take the lead midway through the first half when the ball fell to Dan Burn after Neal Maupay's shot was blocked but he skied over from close range.

Klopp's men went in at half-time having failed to muster a single shot on goal.

The second half shaped up like the first, with Liverpool probing but looking short of inspiration.

Instead it was Brighton who took the lead with the game's first shot on target.

Burn, on the left side of the Liverpool area, headed a cross-field ball back across goal and Alzate combined with Leandro Trossard to steer the ball into the net.

Klopp threw on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Divock Origi for Georginio Wijnaldum and Xherdan Shaqiri as he sought a way back into the match.

Salah flashed a left-footed shot over after Trent Alexander-Arnold fizzed a ball across the area and Adam Webster produced a superb, muscular challenge to stop the Egypt forward in his tracks.

But Brighton were still threatening at the other end. Kelleher saved smartly from Pascal Gross and Trossard also forced a save.

The result lifts Brighton to 15th in the table, 10 points clear of the relegation zone.

"It's not an easy place to get points," said Potter. "They're a top team. We're just trying our best in this league.&nbsp;

"Every game we face a huge task. It's one for the supporters and everyone involved in the club. It's not often a club like us come here and win."

Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title.

Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title. Jurgen Klopp's men appeared to have turned the corner with impressive victories at Tottenham and West Ham after a five-match winless run. But defeat to lowly Brighton at Anfield leaves them in fourth place, seven points behind leaders Manchester City, who also have a game in hand and look increasingly likely to win their third title in four years. Liverpool's 68-game unbeaten home run in the Premier League was ended by Burnley last month and they have now lost consecutive league games at Anfield for the first time since 2012. Troublingly for Klopp, his side have failed to score in three consecutive home league games for the first time since 1984. Graham Potter's men executed their game plan to perfection, snuffing out Liverpool's dangermen and offering a threat up front. The only goal of the game came in the 56th minute courtesy of a Steven Alzate strike. Klopp, who must prepare his team for the daunting task of facing Pep Guardiola's Manchester City on Sunday, said his team were not mentally fresh. "The only explanation now is that we are a fatigued team, mentally more or less," he told BT Sport. "That leads to not the maximum freshness in your legs. "We had our moments but they deserved to win." He added: "The only thing we can do is use the things that happen and learn from them. The solution is always the players. It has been a tough week and tonight it was not enough. City are flying and we have to find solutions." - Defensive crisis - Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was again drafted into central defence in the absence of any of the club's senior centre-backs, with new signing Ben Davies on the substitutes' bench. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent due to illness, meaning Caoimhin Kelleher made only his second Premier League appearance, and forward Sadio Mane was also missing. Liverpool enjoyed the bulk of possession in the early stages but in-form Brighton were organised at the back and pushed forward when they could. Mohamed Salah had a golden chance to give Liverpool the lead in the opening minutes when he collected a long ball from Henderson but put his shot over the bar. Salah offered an occasional threat down the right but Liverpool looked short of ideas in the final third when faced with the massed blue shirts of Brighton. The in-form visitors had a chance to take the lead midway through the first half when the ball fell to Dan Burn after Neal Maupay's shot was blocked but he skied over from close range. Klopp's men went in at half-time having failed to muster a single shot on goal. The second half shaped up like the first, with Liverpool probing but looking short of inspiration. Instead it was Brighton who took the lead with the game's first shot on target. Burn, on the left side of the Liverpool area, headed a cross-field ball back across goal and Alzate combined with Leandro Trossard to steer the ball into the net. Klopp threw on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Divock Origi for Georginio Wijnaldum and Xherdan Shaqiri as he sought a way back into the match. Salah flashed a left-footed shot over after Trent Alexander-Arnold fizzed a ball across the area and Adam Webster produced a superb, muscular challenge to stop the Egypt forward in his tracks. But Brighton were still threatening at the other end. Kelleher saved smartly from Pascal Gross and Trossard also forced a save. The result lifts Brighton to 15th in the table, 10 points clear of the relegation zone. "It's not an easy place to get points," said Potter. "They're a top team. We're just trying our best in this league. "Every game we face a huge task. It's one for the supporters and everyone involved in the club. It's not often a club like us come here and win."

Brighton deal huge blow to Liverpool's Premier League title hopes

Jose Mourinho admitted his "sad" Tottenham flops "lacked energy" after Leandro Trossard rocked their top four challenge as the Brighton forward sealed a shock 1-0 win on Sunday.

Mourinho's side were hoping to get back on track after losing to Liverpool on Thursday, but instead they suffered a damaging second successive defeat.

Trossard netted in the first half at the Amex Stadium and, with Tottenham's Harry Kane sidelined by injury, the visitors lacked the quality to salvage an equaliser.

Tottenham are languishing in sixth place, with just two wins in their last nine Premier League matches.

They trail six points behind fourth placed Leicester, albeit with a game in hand, after only their second defeat in 10 away league games this season.

Mourinho conceded his players were feeling sorry for themselves and couldn't find the drive to rescue a point.

"We didn't start well. In the first half I felt the team was probably too sad with the goal conceded and the situation," Mourinho said.

"There was a lack of energy. In the last 25, 30 minutes they gave everything but of course with some limitations.

"The boys showed great spirit in the second half and showed they are suffering. They tried to fight against that sadness."

The title bid that looked possible for Tottenham in December is fading fast as leaders Manchester City are now 11 points clear of the north Londoners.

A victory against seventh-placed Chelsea on Thursday is essential to halt Tottenham's sudden decline away from the Champions League places.

"I have nothing negative to say about them. I leave the game with a good feeling about my boys because they tried hard in the second half," Mourinho added.

Fourth-bottom Brighton moved seven points clear of the relegation zone after extending their unbeaten league run to three matches.

The Seagulls were the only team in the top four divisions in England without a home league victory this season, but they finally ended that dismal sequence at the 11th attempt.

<h2>- Spluttering Spurs -</h2>

Gareth Bale was handed only his second league start since returning for his second spell at Tottenham.

The on-loan Real Madrid forward replaced Kane, who suffered his latest in a long list of ankle problems against Liverpool, but once again he failed to impress.

Brighton nearly made the perfect start when Pascal Gross hit the outside of the post after good work from Alexis Mac Allister.

Mac Allister fired over from long range soon after as Brighton's vibrant start pushed Tottenham onto the back foot.

The hosts deservedly took the lead with a flowing move in the 17th minute.

Mac Allister picked out Gross and his cut back found Trossard for a clinical close-range finish.

Son Heung-min led Tottenham's first incisive raid when he found Steven Bergwijn on the edge of the penalty area, but the forward dragged his shot wide.

Bale was subdued in attack but the Wales star came in useful at the other end when he nodded clear just as Lewis Dunk's header was flying towards the top corner.

Mourinho sent on Carlos Vinicius in place of centre-back Davinson Sanchez at half-time.

The on-loan Benfica striker made an immediate impact with a towering leap to meet Bale's corner with a header that was blocked by Brighton keeper Robert Sanchez.

Tottenham still couldn't find their rhythm and, after Hugo Lloris saved well from Ben White's deflected effort, Mourinho hauled off the disappointing Bale and introduced Lucas Moura.

It made no difference and Brighton could have doubled their lead when Mac Allister shot into the side-netting from a tight angle before Neal Maupay headed wide from Solly March's cross.

Vinicius offered a glimmer of hope with a powerful effort from the edge of the area that Sanchez pushed away, but it was too little too late for spluttering Tottenham.

Jose Mourinho admitted his "sad" Tottenham flops "lacked energy" after Leandro Trossard rocked their top four challenge as the Brighton forward sealed a shock 1-0 win on Sunday.

Jose Mourinho admitted his "sad" Tottenham flops "lacked energy" after Leandro Trossard rocked their top four challenge as the Brighton forward sealed a shock 1-0 win on Sunday. Mourinho's side were hoping to get back on track after losing to Liverpool on Thursday, but instead they suffered a damaging second successive defeat. Trossard netted in the first half at the Amex Stadium and, with Tottenham's Harry Kane sidelined by injury, the visitors lacked the quality to salvage an equaliser. Tottenham are languishing in sixth place, with just two wins in their last nine Premier League matches. They trail six points behind fourth placed Leicester, albeit with a game in hand, after only their second defeat in 10 away league games this season. Mourinho conceded his players were feeling sorry for themselves and couldn't find the drive to rescue a point. "We didn't start well. In the first half I felt the team was probably too sad with the goal conceded and the situation," Mourinho said. "There was a lack of energy. In the last 25, 30 minutes they gave everything but of course with some limitations. "The boys showed great spirit in the second half and showed they are suffering. They tried to fight against that sadness." The title bid that looked possible for Tottenham in December is fading fast as leaders Manchester City are now 11 points clear of the north Londoners. A victory against seventh-placed Chelsea on Thursday is essential to halt Tottenham's sudden decline away from the Champions League places. "I have nothing negative to say about them. I leave the game with a good feeling about my boys because they tried hard in the second half," Mourinho added. Fourth-bottom Brighton moved seven points clear of the relegation zone after extending their unbeaten league run to three matches. The Seagulls were the only team in the top four divisions in England without a home league victory this season, but they finally ended that dismal sequence at the 11th attempt. - Spluttering Spurs - Gareth Bale was handed only his second league start since returning for his second spell at Tottenham. The on-loan Real Madrid forward replaced Kane, who suffered his latest in a long list of ankle problems against Liverpool, but once again he failed to impress. Brighton nearly made the perfect start when Pascal Gross hit the outside of the post after good work from Alexis Mac Allister. Mac Allister fired over from long range soon after as Brighton's vibrant start pushed Tottenham onto the back foot. The hosts deservedly took the lead with a flowing move in the 17th minute. Mac Allister picked out Gross and his cut back found Trossard for a clinical close-range finish. Son Heung-min led Tottenham's first incisive raid when he found Steven Bergwijn on the edge of the penalty area, but the forward dragged his shot wide. Bale was subdued in attack but the Wales star came in useful at the other end when he nodded clear just as Lewis Dunk's header was flying towards the top corner. Mourinho sent on Carlos Vinicius in place of centre-back Davinson Sanchez at half-time. The on-loan Benfica striker made an immediate impact with a towering leap to meet Bale's corner with a header that was blocked by Brighton keeper Robert Sanchez. Tottenham still couldn't find their rhythm and, after Hugo Lloris saved well from Ben White's deflected effort, Mourinho hauled off the disappointing Bale and introduced Lucas Moura. It made no difference and Brighton could have doubled their lead when Mac Allister shot into the side-netting from a tight angle before Neal Maupay headed wide from Solly March's cross. Vinicius offered a glimmer of hope with a powerful effort from the edge of the area that Sanchez pushed away, but it was too little too late for spluttering Tottenham.

'Sad' Spurs stunned as Trossard boosts Brighton

Brighton's Amex stadium is the latest British sports venue to be turned into a coronavirus testing centre, the Premier League club confirmed on Sunday.

The Tottenham Hotspur stadium and the home of English rugby, Twickenham, have also been converted into drive-through testing facilities as part of the British government's effort to increase testing for thousands more National Health Service (NHS) staff and other key workers.

"The centre was scheduled to see more than 50 NHS frontline workers on Saturday afternoon, and they will have the results of their tests within 48 hours. Within a few days, the site should reach its capacity of up to 1,000 tests a day," said Brighton chief executive Paul Barber.

"We have committed to do everything we can to assist the NHS and other key workers in this crisis.

"We have already opened up the doors of the training ground, as well as the stadium, to be used by the NHS, emergency services and local authority for training, storage or whatever they feel it can be used for in the fight against this pandemic."

The UK government has come under increasing pressure to ramp up its testing capability to help control the spread of COVID-19.

The official death toll in Britain soared by 888 on Saturday to 15,464.

Premier League matches have been suspended indefinitely due to the virus.

Even when games do return they are likely to be behind closed doors due to guidelines on social distancing.

The Premier League is examining proposals using a small number of neutral venues to play all the remaining 92 games of the season to minimise the number of medical, media and security personnel needed.

That would free up those stadiums being utilised for services to help fight the virus to fulfil that need for a longer period.

Testing is also likely to hold the key to whether the Premier League season can be completed at all.

Until widespread testing is available to the public, league officials are wary of draining resources by testing players with the aim of clearing them to return to action.&nbsp;

Brighton's Amex stadium is the latest British sports venue to be turned into a coronavirus testing centre, the Premier League club confirmed on Sunday. The Tottenham Hotspur stadium and the home of English rugby, Twickenham, have also been converted into drive-through testing facilities as part of the British government's effort to increase testing for thousands more National Health Service (NHS) staff and other key workers.

Brighton's Amex stadium is the latest British sports venue to be turned into a coronavirus testing centre, the Premier League club confirmed on Sunday. The Tottenham Hotspur stadium and the home of English rugby, Twickenham, have also been converted into drive-through testing facilities as part of the British government's effort to increase testing for thousands more National Health Service (NHS) staff and other key workers. "The centre was scheduled to see more than 50 NHS frontline workers on Saturday afternoon, and they will have the results of their tests within 48 hours. Within a few days, the site should reach its capacity of up to 1,000 tests a day," said Brighton chief executive Paul Barber. "We have committed to do everything we can to assist the NHS and other key workers in this crisis. "We have already opened up the doors of the training ground, as well as the stadium, to be used by the NHS, emergency services and local authority for training, storage or whatever they feel it can be used for in the fight against this pandemic." The UK government has come under increasing pressure to ramp up its testing capability to help control the spread of COVID-19. The official death toll in Britain soared by 888 on Saturday to 15,464. Premier League matches have been suspended indefinitely due to the virus. Even when games do return they are likely to be behind closed doors due to guidelines on social distancing. The Premier League is examining proposals using a small number of neutral venues to play all the remaining 92 games of the season to minimise the number of medical, media and security personnel needed. That would free up those stadiums being utilised for services to help fight the virus to fulfil that need for a longer period. Testing is also likely to hold the key to whether the Premier League season can be completed at all. Until widespread testing is available to the public, league officials are wary of draining resources by testing players with the aim of clearing them to return to action.

Brighton's stadium to become coronavirus testing centre

Chess&nbsp;grandmaster&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-chess-championships-2017-viswanathan-anand-defeats-world-no-1-magnus-carlsen-27935">Magnus&nbsp;Carlsen's</a> knack for complex strategy has helped steer him into the upper echelons of an unlikely competition,&nbsp;Fantasy Football.

The Norwegian stands third on the Premier League's official fantasy football competition (FPL), only being knocked off the top spot on Monday after Crystal Palace's 1-1 draw against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-slump-to-first-home-defeat-by-brighton-266535">Brighton and Hove Albion</a>.

The 29-year-old reigning world&nbsp;chess&nbsp;champion tweaked his Twitter profile to include his FPL achievement.

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Bio needed an update <a href="https://t.co/Wc7z0FUVuj">pic.twitter.com/Wc7z0FUVuj</a>
— Magnus Carlsen (@MagnusCarlsen) <a href="https://twitter.com/MagnusCarlsen/status/1205862206946074624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"World&nbsp;Chess&nbsp;Champion. The highest-ranked&nbsp;chess&nbsp;player in the world. Former (live) #1&nbsp;Fantasy&nbsp;Premier League player," reads his bio on the social media site.

The FPL is played by more than seven million people.

"Since a lot of people are asking about my #FPL strategy, mine is the not so groundbreaking one of part stats and part gut feeling,"&nbsp;Carlsen&nbsp;told his Twitter followers last week.

"Patent pending."

Carlsen's place as the top-ranked FPL player in the world has been taken by former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wolves-and-palace-ease-into-fa-cup-quarter-finals-197987">Liverpool and Bristol Rovers</a> defender Nick Tanner.

Carlsen's team includes Liverpool duo Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah and John Lundstrum of Sheffield United, the game's top point-scoring defender.

Chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen's knack for complex strategy has helped steer him into the upper echelons of an unlikely competition, Fantasy Football. The Norwegian stands third on the Premier League's official fantasy football competition (FPL), only being knocked off the top spot on Monday after Crystal Palace's 1-1 draw against Brighton and Hove Albion.

Chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen's knack for complex strategy has helped steer him into the upper echelons of an unlikely competition, Fantasy Football. The Norwegian stands third on the Premier League's official fantasy football competition (FPL), only being knocked off the top spot on Monday after Crystal Palace's 1-1 draw against Brighton and Hove Albion. The 29-year-old reigning world chess champion tweaked his Twitter profile to include his FPL achievement. Bio needed an update pic.twitter.com/Wc7z0FUVuj — Magnus Carlsen (@MagnusCarlsen) December 14, 2019 × "World Chess Champion. The highest-ranked chess player in the world. Former (live) #1 Fantasy Premier League player," reads his bio on the social media site. The FPL is played by more than seven million people. "Since a lot of people are asking about my #FPL strategy, mine is the not so groundbreaking one of part stats and part gut feeling," Carlsen told his Twitter followers last week. "Patent pending." Carlsen's place as the top-ranked FPL player in the world has been taken by former Liverpool and Bristol Rovers defender Nick Tanner. Carlsen's team includes Liverpool duo Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah and John Lundstrum of Sheffield United, the game's top point-scoring defender.

Chess grandmaster Carlsen makes a splash in Fantasy Football

Christian Eriksen's 88th-minute goal finally broke Brighton and Hove Albion's brave resistance to give Tottenham Hotspur a precious 1-0 victory in their quest for a top-four finish in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Until the Danish playmaker's low shot from just outside the penalty area whizzed across the lush turf and past Mat Ryan, it seemed Brighton had withstood a second-half siege and would escape with a priceless point in their relegation battle.

Chris Hughton's side erected a green wall in front of Tottenham for more or less the entire game, leaving the home fans groaning in frustration -- none more so than when Toby Alderweireld's shot with 20 minutes remaining hit the inside of the post and rolled across the face of goal.

In his desperation, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino even sent on outcast Dutch striker Vincent Janssen in the 80th minute for his first action of the season.

But in the end it was Eriksen who punctured Brighton's armour from Tottenham's 29th goal attempt -- 21 of which were from outside the penalty area.

It secured a fourth win from four matches in all competitions for Tottenham inside their magnificent new stadium and more importantly it lifted them three points above fourth-placed Chelsea with three games to go and four ahead of Arsenal who have played one game less. Tottenham are six clear of Manchester United.

"I had a few warm-up shots before the goal. I hit it well and saw it fly in," Eriksen told Sky Sports.

"It is a very, very good feeling, a tough game, a lot of chances, they sat deep, it is difficult to play against 10 or 11 in the box.

"We saw the other results so we knew what was at stake. To stay in our place we had to win, there was no other option."

Brighton have now gone six games without a goal, losing five of those games, and will enter their last three games only three points above third-from-bottom Cardiff City.

Ominously they also have Arsenal and Manchester City still to play, after hosting Newcastle United this weekend.

Despite their loss at Manchester City on Saturday, results fell kindly for Tottenham with surprise weekend defeats for Arsenal and Manchester United and a draw for Chelsea on Monday.

They knew a win would go a long way to securing a top-four finish, but Brighton, scrapping for their top-flight lives, were never going to make things easy for the hosts.

Sluggish Tottenham struggled to carve out chances in the first half although Lucas Moura had a shot cleared off the line by Brighton defender Lewis Dunk and Dele Alli almost scored on the stroke of halftime but his toe-poke was kept out by Ryan.

In a rare attack, Shane Duffy should have scored for Brighton just after the break but he headed straight at Hugo Lloris after finding himself unmarked at the far post.

After that the game was played almost exclusively at the other end in front of Tottenham's steepling south stand as the hosts cranked up the tempo.

Alli fired over, Danny Rose's dipping effort forced Ryan into a great save and Son Heung-min also spurned a chance while Alderweireld's shot against the upright summed up Tottenham's night as Brighton's defenders threw their bodies on the line.

Pochettino described the win as an "amazing three points" while Hughton said it was heartbreaking to concede so late.

"The longer the game went on I thought we were going to hold out for a point," Hughton said.

Christian Eriksen's 88th-minute goal finally broke Brighton and Hove Albion's brave resistance to give Tottenham Hotspur a precious 1-0 victory in their quest for a top-four finish in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Christian Eriksen's 88th-minute goal finally broke Brighton and Hove Albion's brave resistance to give Tottenham Hotspur a precious 1-0 victory in their quest for a top-four finish in the Premier League on Tuesday. Until the Danish playmaker's low shot from just outside the penalty area whizzed across the lush turf and past Mat Ryan, it seemed Brighton had withstood a second-half siege and would escape with a priceless point in their relegation battle. Chris Hughton's side erected a green wall in front of Tottenham for more or less the entire game, leaving the home fans groaning in frustration -- none more so than when Toby Alderweireld's shot with 20 minutes remaining hit the inside of the post and rolled across the face of goal. In his desperation, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino even sent on outcast Dutch striker Vincent Janssen in the 80th minute for his first action of the season. But in the end it was Eriksen who punctured Brighton's armour from Tottenham's 29th goal attempt -- 21 of which were from outside the penalty area. It secured a fourth win from four matches in all competitions for Tottenham inside their magnificent new stadium and more importantly it lifted them three points above fourth-placed Chelsea with three games to go and four ahead of Arsenal who have played one game less. Tottenham are six clear of Manchester United. "I had a few warm-up shots before the goal. I hit it well and saw it fly in," Eriksen told Sky Sports. "It is a very, very good feeling, a tough game, a lot of chances, they sat deep, it is difficult to play against 10 or 11 in the box. "We saw the other results so we knew what was at stake. To stay in our place we had to win, there was no other option." Brighton have now gone six games without a goal, losing five of those games, and will enter their last three games only three points above third-from-bottom Cardiff City. Ominously they also have Arsenal and Manchester City still to play, after hosting Newcastle United this weekend. Despite their loss at Manchester City on Saturday, results fell kindly for Tottenham with surprise weekend defeats for Arsenal and Manchester United and a draw for Chelsea on Monday. They knew a win would go a long way to securing a top-four finish, but Brighton, scrapping for their top-flight lives, were never going to make things easy for the hosts. Sluggish Tottenham struggled to carve out chances in the first half although Lucas Moura had a shot cleared off the line by Brighton defender Lewis Dunk and Dele Alli almost scored on the stroke of halftime but his toe-poke was kept out by Ryan. In a rare attack, Shane Duffy should have scored for Brighton just after the break but he headed straight at Hugo Lloris after finding himself unmarked at the far post. After that the game was played almost exclusively at the other end in front of Tottenham's steepling south stand as the hosts cranked up the tempo. Alli fired over, Danny Rose's dipping effort forced Ryan into a great save and Son Heung-min also spurned a chance while Alderweireld's shot against the upright summed up Tottenham's night as Brighton's defenders threw their bodies on the line. Pochettino described the win as an "amazing three points" while Hughton said it was heartbreaking to concede so late. "The longer the game went on I thought we were going to hold out for a point," Hughton said.

Christian Eriksen's late goal secures precious win for Tottenham

Brighton and Hove Albion reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup, beating Championship side Millwall 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out on Sunday, after clawing their way back into the game to draw 2-2 from two goals down with only two minutes remaining.

Millwall defender Jake Cooper smashed his side's final penalty over the bar at the sudden death stage of the shoot-out, after Brighton striker Glenn Murray had hit the crossbar and Millwall's Mahlon Romeo had seen a spot-kick saved by Mat Ryan.

Chris Hughton's side pulled themselves back into the game in extraordinary circumstances after Millwall, who are 20th in the Championship and fighting relegation to English soccer's third tier, took a deserved 2-0 lead.

Central defender Alex Pearce struck the opening goal in the 70th minute with a towering header from a corner and Neil Harris's side doubled their lead with a sliding finish from Ireland international Aiden O'Brien in the 79th.

That looked to have sealed Millwall's path to Wembley as fans chanted "Manchester City we're coming for you" but substitute Jurgen Locadia gave Brighton a fighting chance with a powerful finish in the 88th.

Brighton levelled with the help of a goalkeeping howler from keeper David Martin who fumbled Solly March's hopeful cross from a free kick into the net in time added on.

Millwall's Shane Ferguson was sent off in the penultimate minute of a tense period of extra time, with both sides reluctant to take risks after a punishing 90 minutes.

It is the first time since 1983 that Brighton have reached the FA Cup semi-finals.

Brighton and Hove Albion reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup, beating Championship side Millwall 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out on Sunday, after clawing their way back into the game to draw 2-2 from two goals down with only two minutes remaining.

Brighton and Hove Albion reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup, beating Championship side Millwall 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out on Sunday, after clawing their way back into the game to draw 2-2 from two goals down with only two minutes remaining. Millwall defender Jake Cooper smashed his side's final penalty over the bar at the sudden death stage of the shoot-out, after Brighton striker Glenn Murray had hit the crossbar and Millwall's Mahlon Romeo had seen a spot-kick saved by Mat Ryan. Chris Hughton's side pulled themselves back into the game in extraordinary circumstances after Millwall, who are 20th in the Championship and fighting relegation to English soccer's third tier, took a deserved 2-0 lead. Central defender Alex Pearce struck the opening goal in the 70th minute with a towering header from a corner and Neil Harris's side doubled their lead with a sliding finish from Ireland international Aiden O'Brien in the 79th. That looked to have sealed Millwall's path to Wembley as fans chanted "Manchester City we're coming for you" but substitute Jurgen Locadia gave Brighton a fighting chance with a powerful finish in the 88th. Brighton levelled with the help of a goalkeeping howler from keeper David Martin who fumbled Solly March's hopeful cross from a free kick into the net in time added on. Millwall's Shane Ferguson was sent off in the penultimate minute of a tense period of extra time, with both sides reluctant to take risks after a punishing 90 minutes. It is the first time since 1983 that Brighton have reached the FA Cup semi-finals.

FA Cup: Brighton fight back to beat Millwall in shoot-out and reach Cup semis