After a cagey start at the Amex Stadium, it was the hosts who just shaded the play and were awarded for their efforts when Evan Ferguson slotted home past Nick Pope to put the Seagulls ahead midway through the first period.
Newcastle struggled to lay a glove on their opponents and rarely tested the Brighton back line and goalkeeper for the majority of the first period.
Here are our half-time ratings from Newcastle United’s clash with Brighton at the Amex Stadium:

5. Matt Targett - 6
Made his first start of the season. Had a tough time up against Solly March in the opening stages but dealt fairly well with the winger. | Getty Images

6. Sandro Tonali - 6
Should have cleared the ball before Ferguson’s opener. Looked lively going forward. | AFP via Getty Images

7. Bruno Guimaraes - 5
Had a quiet first-half as Newcastle’s midfield struggled. | Getty Images

8. Joelinton - 6
Had a half chance to level just moments after Brighton’s opener but put his effort wide. | Getty Images


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