AliousBrighton’s frustrating habit of slow starts continues to haunt them, and even within the squad there is growing confusion over why the issue refuses to go away.
Following the Seagulls’ 2–0 defeat to Liverpool — a match that effectively slipped away inside the opening minute — young midfielder Jack Hinshelwood opened up on the problem that keeps placing Brighton on the back foot. Hugo Ekitike’s goal after just 46 seconds set the tone at Anfield, leaving Fabian Hürzeler’s side chasing the game almost immediately.
Brighton never truly recovered from the early blow. They conceded again from a set-piece and delivered a largely underwhelming performance, despite carving out several decent chances. Diego Gómez squandered two clear openings, while others resorted to speculative efforts from distance that failed to trouble the goalkeeper.
Speaking to BBC Sussex after the match, Hinshelwood admitted the players themselves are struggling to pinpoint the cause of their slow beginnings.
He explained that the squad needs to spend the week searching for answers, because once Brighton went two goals down, their performance noticeably improved. Hinshelwood questioned whether it was a matter of belief or confidence, before dismissing that idea, insisting the team arrive at matches fully convinced they can get results — even at difficult venues like Anfield.
The focus now, he said, must be on finding ways to start matches with intensity and sharpness from the first whistle, adding that he is confident Brighton will respond with a stronger display next weekend.
Interestingly, Brighton’s resilience after falling behind has been one of their strengths this season. The Seagulls have already collected 11 points from losing positions, including impressive victories over Brentford, Chelsea and Manchester City, along with draws against Wolves and West Ham.
While Hürzeler will take encouragement from his team’s ability to fight back, it also highlights a lingering frustration. If Brighton could begin games at full throttle and seize early control more often, their league position might look very different.
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