Brighton to test Bielsa's bounce-back-ability
A Leeds United side reeling off the back of a 3-0 defeat away to Crawley Town of League Two in the FA Cup host Brighton and Hove Albion in looking to bounce back. Graham Potter’s Seagulls needed penalties to get past Newport County also of League Two with the cup competition once again showcasing the undeniable strength and quality of the English Football League. The Whites come in as fairly strong favourites despite the visitors outstanding sustained process so far this season, Brighton are just three points above the relegation zone with Fulham immediately below them having two games in hand. It is worrying times for the visitors, but I for one still fully expect them to stay up.
Process
We have seen an overwhelming underperformance by the Seagulls who rank fifth in the division for expected goals compared to 17th. They have scored just 21 from 27.3 expected and conceded 28 from 21.7 expected, their form will turn around at some point if they can sustain those numbers, it is just a matter of whether it will turn around in time to take them clear of the relegation picture.
Leeds have also slightly underperformed and have caught the eye in the entertainment of their fixtures so far this term. They have a top six attack and a bottom three defence, so it does make for good viewing. Marcelo Bielsa’s men have scored 30 from 30.5 expected goals, ranking fourth for that metric and conceded 33 from 34.4 expected goals, sitting 19th for both measures. They must improve defensively if they are to gain any consistency, but going forward they look excellent, a country mile the best promoted team in the division.
Goals?
Definitely an angle for me, both sides creating plenty of chances and particularly Leeds are leaky at the back. If Brighton have their shooting boots they have more than enough to take all three points.
- Leeds have scored in seven of 10.
- Leeds have conceded in six of 10.
- Leeds have seen both teams score in four of 10.
- Leeds have seen over 2.5 goals in seven of 10.
- Brighton have scored in seven of 10.
- Brighton have conceded in nine of 10.
- Brighton have seen both teams score in seven of 10.
- Brighton have seen over 2.5 goals in five of 10.
I am looking forward to this one, both sides like to get the ball down and play, prioritising attack. Expect Bielsa to get a reaction after their poor performance in the cup but if Brighton can be clinical for once they are right in with a shout.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
A much needed win for Brighton, Neal Maupay bagged the only goal of the game in the first period.