Brighton End Winless Streak with Victory at Ipswich

Brighton secured their first Premier League win since November, defeating relegation-threatened Ipswich Town 2-0 at Portman Road. Goals from Kaoru Mitoma and substitute Georginio Rutter sealed a much-needed victory for the Seagulls, lifting them to ninth in the table. Ipswich had early chances with keeper Bart Verbruggen making crucial saves from Nathan Broadhead, Liam Delap and Omari Hutchinson. Wes Burns also missed a clear opportunity, shooting wide from 12 yards.

Brighton, despite dominating possession, lacked sharpness early with Christian Walton denying Joao Pedro’s effort.The breakthrough came in the second half when an unmarked Mitoma side-footed a precise 15-yard shot past Walton, who managed to get a hand to it but couldn’t keep it out. Rutter ensured Brighton’s win in the 81st minute, capitalizing on time and space to fire into the bottom corner, his third goal in two games.

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler praised his team for their resilience during their eight-game winless run, saying, “It wasn’t our best performance but we controlled the game and deserved to win. Every victory in this league is tough and this should boost our confidence.” Ipswich, who recently defeated Chelsea at home were unable to replicate their form and dropped back into the relegation zone on goal difference.

Manager Kieran McKenna lamented his team’s lack of belief after going behind and urged them to rise to upcoming challenges against Manchester City and Liverpool. For Brighton, the victory marks a turning point as they aim to build momentum, starting with a visit to Manchester United. Meanwhile, Ipswich face a daunting schedule as they fight to avoid relegation.