Brighton vs Ipswich Preview
- Draw or Brighton win
- Adingra to score or assist
Brighton’s Impressive Start Under Fabian Hürzeler
Brighton have hit the ground running under new manager Fabian Hürzeler, remaining unbeaten in all competitions so far this season (W3, D1).
Heading into the international break, Albion found themselves comfortably sitting within the top four.
A positive omen for Brighton is their superb September form in the Premier League, having won six of their last eight matches played during this month. Notably, they have scored 3+ goals in each of their last four September victories, showcasing their attacking prowess.
As they prepare to host Ipswich at the Amex Stadium, Brighton will also take confidence from their strong record against promoted teams.
They’ve lost just once in their last 13 Premier League home games against newly-promoted sides (W5, D7), positioning them as heavy favourites for Saturday’s clash.
Ipswich’s Struggles and Defensive Woes
Ipswich have had a tough start to life back in the Premier League, yet to register a victory in any competition this season (D1, L3).
Their most recent match saw them pick up their first point, drawing 1-1 against Fulham after scoring the opening goal in the first 15 minutes.
However, Ipswich’s inability to maintain a lead, having been pegged back for the third consecutive game, remains a concern for manager Kieran McKenna.
Defensively, Ipswich are struggling, conceding the third-most goals in the Premier League before the international break (seven goals in four matches).
Tightening up at the back will be crucial if they are to survive in the top flight, but they’ve had a challenging fixture list so far, facing title contenders Liverpool and Manchester City.
Historical Context
Despite Ipswich’s current struggles, history provides a glimmer of hope. Ipswich have performed well in recent visits to the Amex Stadium, winning two of their last four trips to Brighton without conceding (D1, L1).
Additionally, Ipswich were victorious in the clubs’ last top-flight meeting, a 2-0 win back in January 1983.
With the upcoming match marking the first-ever Premier League encounter between the two sides, this fixture will become the 936th different one played since the league’s rebranding in 1992.
Key Players to Watch
Simon Adingra (Brighton)
Simon Adingra has been in scintillating form for Brighton this season, contributing to a goal every 47 minutes on average (G2, A1). His pace and creativity will be key to unlocking Ipswich’s shaky defense.
Sam Morsy (Ipswich)
Sam Morsy has been a tenacious presence in the middle of the park, receiving yellow cards in each of their last two Premier League games.
Both bookings came in the last 15 minutes of the first half, indicating his aggressive style of play. Morsy has yet to be booked against Brighton, but has lost both of his previous visits to the Amex Stadium.
Conclusion
Brighton will be looking to continue their unbeaten run under Hürzeler and build on their impressive form, particularly during the month of September.
Ipswich, on the other hand, will need to tighten up defensively and improve on their early-season performances if they’re to pick up a positive result.
With Brighton’s strong record against promoted sides and Ipswich’s historical success at the Amex Stadium, this match has the potential to offer an intriguing contest.
Prediction: Brighton to secure a comfortable victory, but Ipswich might put up a stronger fight than their recent form suggests.
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