EPL: Brighton 1-0 Newcastle United
Tomer Hemed grabbed the crucial goal as Brighton beat Newcastle 1-0 to move up to 13th in the Premier League table.
The 30-year-old striker finished off a well-worked free-kick routine six minutes into the second half to bring Newcastle’s three-match winning run to an end.
It was a particularly pleasing result for Brighton’s former Newcastle boss Chris Hughton.
The visitors created the first opening in the third minute but Mat Ryan was alert and made a good one-handed save to keep out Mikel Merino’s volley.
The Seagulls responded well though and Hemed flicked a header wide from Pascal Gross’ cross before the Israeli’s ambitious long-range shot was saved by Rob Elliot.
A promising move by Hughton’s team ended with Gross’ goalbound shot hitting team-mate Anthony Knockaert and sailing wide of Elliot’s goal before the goalkeeper palmed Solly March’s cross away from danger.
After a spell of Brighton dominance, the visitors wasted a great chance to take the lead when former Stoke City striker Joselu steered his shot wide when he should have scored.
Ayoze Perez then fired a shot over the bar as Rafa Benitez’s team enjoyed a good spell but the quality of play deteriorated as half time got closer and chances became limited.
After Brighton had taken the lead in the 51st minute March went close to doubling the home team’s advantage but Elliot somehow managed to clear the ball off the line with his boot.
When Newcastle responded Merino’s deflected shot flew narrowly wide of Ryan’s goal before substitute Jonjo Shelvey hit the woodwork and then drifted a free-kick over the bar.
But Brighton hung on to claim their second victory of the campaign as they moved three points clear of the relegation zone.