Brighton and Hove Albion played out a thrilling 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest on Sunday afternoon, extending their unbeaten run under new manager Fabian Hürzeler.
The game had it all, with penalties, free-kicks, red cards, goals, and managerial bust-ups.
While the result may have left fans feeling like it was another two points dropped, there were plenty of positives to take away from the game.
Here are four things we learned from Brighton's performance.
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Hinshelwood shines in midfield
After nearly a year of being Albion's versatile utility man, playing key roles at both right and left-back, Jack Hinshelwood was finally deployed in his preferred midfield position this weekend.
The 19-year-old academy graduate was a standout performer for the home side, showing his attacking instincts by scoring his fourth goal for the club.
The Sussex-born youngster netted just before half-time, before showcasing a passionate celebration that saw him smash the Brighton badge on his chest.
It was a moment of pride for both him and the club.
Even when he was playing in a more defensive role, it was clear that Hinshelwood thrives when given the chance to get forward into attacking positions.
Therefore, it was great for fans to see him get the chance operate in his natural role, providing energy and composure in the middle of the park.
His fabulous header in the 42nd minute was a significant moment in Brighton's comeback.
Additionally, his Man of the Match performance highlighted his growing importance to the team.
Post-match, manager Hürzeler was delighted with Hinshelwood's performance. He suggested that Hinshelwood was a "future leader" at the club.
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Welbeck’s free-kick flair
Danny Welbeck took, and scored, his first career free-kick yesterday for the Albion.
The striker curled one around the wall, leaving Forest goalkeeper, Matz Sels, with no chance and putting Albion 2-1 up just before half-time.
This free-kick was a rare moment of excellence for the Seagulls, who have struggled in dead-ball situations since the departure of Alexis Mac Allister and Pascal Gross.
Welbeck’s goal was not only a demonstration of his finishing ability but also a potential solution to Brighton’s free-kick issues, adding another weapon to their set-piece arsenal.
In terms of development this season, Welbeck's output has increased spectacularly.
By offering a dead-ball threat as well as already reaching half his record Premier League goal tally in any season for the Seagulls - having netted six times in the 2020-21, '21-22 and '22-23 seasons - Welbeck has marked himself out as a real reason for optimism.
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Hürzeler’s fearless front-foot tactics
Despite leading 2-1 at half-time, Brighton manager Hürzeler refused to sit back and defend the slender lead.
In the second half, his side came out on the front foot, playing some excellent football in their best spell of the game.
This was a refreshing sight for Albion fans, as their side chased to extend their lead, rather than sitting back and inviting pressure.
Alongside this, Hürzeler's high defensive line sparked a lot of attention. It is yet another indication of his desire to push forward rather than play conservatively.
Alternatively, many crticised this high defensive approach, suggesting it is the root cause to many of the goals Albion have conceded this season.
This was certainly true of Forest's equalising goal.
Despite controlling their advantage, seemingly out of nowhere, Forest's Ramón Sosa was set through and capitalised on Brighton's high line.
Nevertheless, Hürzeler’s commitment to attacking football was evident. This style of play has been refreshing for Brighton fans, who appreciate a proactive approach.
The new boss' tactical bravery reflects a confidence in his squad’s ability to control games. It will, no doubt, take time for the players to fully adapt and maximise the effectiveness of this new system.
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A hard team to beat
A draw on Sunday means that the Albion remain unbeaten across all seven competitive games this season, showcasing their resilience and ability to bounce back from deficits.
They have come from behind now against both Arsenal and Nottingham Forest and will have come away from both displays feeling as though they should have won.
Despite the 2-2 draw feeling like two points dropped, especially after leading at half-time, the Seagulls have proven to be a tough side to break down.
Their tenacity in games speaks volumes about their team's mentality under their new boss.
Whilst the last two Premier League fixtures have ended in draws, Brighton’s unbeaten run continues and is testament to their solidity and growing reputation as a formidable and tough-to-beat side this season.
