Player Ratings: Brighton’s 4-0 FA Cup Victory at Carrow Road
Brighton secured a comfortable 4-0 victory in the FA Cup third round at Carrow Road, but the match unfolded in stages. Norwich began brightly and almost took the lead with Amankwah Forson’s shot hitting the post, but Brighton soon found their rhythm. Despite injuries to Joao Pedro and Evan Ferguson, Brighton showcased their squad depth with Yankuba Minteh and Georgino Rutter returning to the starting lineup, both playing pivotal roles in the win.
Rutter scored a first-half brace, with his header on 37 minutes and a powerful finish just after the break. Julio Enciso added a third, capitalizing on a defensive mistake, before Solly March sealed the win with a stunning long-range strike, marking his first goal since returning from injury. The victory secured a place in the FA Cup fourth round, but Brighton will face Ipswich Town in the Premier League on Thursday.
Here’s how the players rated:
1. Jason Steele – 7
The experienced keeper had a quiet afternoon after Forson’s early shot hit the post, but otherwise, Steele was rarely tested.
2. Joel Veltman – 7
Solid and dependable as ever, Veltman helped keep Norwich at bay before being substituted in the 78th minute.
3. Adam Webster – 7
Looked composed at the back and showed no signs of discomfort after his recent hamstring injury. A key 60 minutes of play.
4. Jan Paul Van Hecke – 7
Another strong defensive performance, Van Hecke was solid and rarely troubled by Norwich’s attack.
5. Pervis Estupinan – 7
Played the full match and showed glimpses of his best form again, benefitting from a consistent run of games.
6. Carlos Baleba – 7
Imposing in midfield, Baleba controlled the game without breaking a sweat, alongside Yasin Ayari.
7. Yasin Ayari – 8
Ayari was excellent, leading the press and contributing offensively. He demonstrated improved ball distribution compared to previous outings.
8. Yankuba Minteh – 7
Minteh’s pace caused Norwich trouble, and he set up Rutter’s second goal. However, he was forced off injured after 71 minutes, with hopes that it’s not serious.
9. Julio Enciso – 8
Enciso was a constant threat up front, scoring a well-deserved goal after a clever steal and finish from a tight angle.
10. Kaoru Mitoma – 6
Mitoma showed flashes of his usual brilliance but was inconsistent, losing possession too often. Brighton will need him back to his best.
11. Georgino Rutter – 9
Rutter was the standout performer, netting twice with a header and a clinical finish. His strong display earned him the man-of-the-match honors.
Substitutes:
Danny Welbeck – 6
Made his return from injury and played 30 minutes, showing good movement but not enough time to make a major impact.
Brajan Gruda – 6
Provided an assist for Solly March’s goal, displaying good vision and creativity.
Ruairi McConville – 6
Made his Albion debut, an important moment in his career.
Solly March – 6
March’s stunning strike sealed the win, earning the loudest cheer of the day as he marked his first goal since recovering from injury.
Jakub Moder – 6
Came on late and slotted in at right back, helping maintain the team’s shape as the game wound down.
‘What a belter’ – Brighton player ratings at Norwich as £40m man scores 9/10 and Solly March delights
