Brighton moved into second place in the Premier League table after defeating Brentford 2-0 at the Amex Stadium on Sunday, with Diego Gomez scoring a stunning long-range effort.
Gomez opened the scoring after 15 minutes, firing a powerful 25-yard strike into the top corner with his left foot to give the hosts an early advantage.
The Paraguayan midfielder, who has already attracted attention for his spectacular 50-yard goal against Crystal Palace, produced another impressive finish to strengthen his growing reputation as one of Brighton’s attacking threats.
Brentford’s task became more difficult in the 23rd minute when striker Igor Thiago was sent off following a VAR review.
The Brazilian had initially been booked alongside Chema Andres after an altercation between the two players, but referee Michael Oliver upgraded Thiago’s yellow card to a straight red for pushing his opponent in the face.
Brighton capitalised on their numerical advantage before the break when they were awarded a penalty after Keane Lewis-Potter brought down Luka Vuskovic during a corner.
Pascal Gross converted the spot kick emphatically in the 42nd minute to double the home side’s lead.
The hosts continued to search for more goals after the restart, with Maxim De Cuyper and Yasin Ayari coming close, but they were unable to add to their advantage.
The victory takes Brighton above Manchester City into second place, with the Seagulls set to occupy the position for at least the next two weeks.
