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So far, so promising - and not too concerned about chances which got away

Brighton receive a spectacular welcome ahead of the Newcastle game. Picture Simon Dack
Brighton receive a spectacular welcome ahead of the Newcastle game. Picture Simon Dack

Four points from two games - and it should have been six.

We asked three long-time Albion fans for their verdict on the 0-0 draw with Newcastle.

Then we put the spotlight on the chances that got away - were they a concern?

It appears not after showings this season and near the end of last.

What were your thoughts on Albion’s performance versus Newcastle?

Colin Beales: I was worried about this game as Howe’s Newcastle are now an excellent side with good form from last season. It was pretty even in the first half but the second was all us. We made quite a few chances to win it, but clearances off the line or Twitter favourite Nick Pope thwarted our efforts. Overall I was please with the performance and the fitness levels given the heat the game was played in.

James Heasman: Unfortunately, this was two points dropped. Although we were a little careless at times in the first half, Newcastle were poor and seemingly quite limited. The second half Brighton completely ‘bossed’ the game, and it was only poor finishing that prevented us winning. It was an entertaining game and the introduction of Mitoma, gave everyone another player to be excited about.

Tim Ayling: An excellent performance just without the finishing touches, especially in the second half which we completely bossed. I think most of us would have taken four points from the first two games, so can’t be too disappointed.

Who was your pick of the Albion players?

Colin Beales: Not sure this one had a clear man of the match. Caicedo grew into the game after a shocking start, Dunk was consistent throughout but I’d probably say Joel Veltman edged it.

James Heasman: Caicedo did okay and broke up play well, Solly gave another good performance as did Veltman, but I am going for Lewis Dunk, who literally marked Wilson out of the game. Another commanding display.

Tim Ayling: Caicedo was excellent in the tackle, but not at his best with the ball. Dunk dealt with Wilson really well, and Welbeck was tireless. Most exciting of all was Mitoma’s cameo. He looks a real player.

Does the fact several chances got away concern you for the season ahead?

Colin Beales: Some might say it’s typical Brighton, but for me performances like this will show us rewards over time. All that said it would be nice to add a forward to the squad if the Maupay transfer goes through.

James Heasman: Not really. It would be more of an issue if we weren’t getting opportunities. I actually think the Lallana header was the worst of the misses, and on another day we score two or three. I did wonder whether Undav would come on as we seemed to be missing that ‘fox in the box’ when the ball was bobbling about.

Tim Ayling: I think we’ve been here before, but I’m less concerned than before. It’s the first time in a while this has happened and, with the players at our disposal, I’m hopeful it won’t be as much an issue as it was a couple of seasons ago.

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