Hughton laments stalemate against Huddersfield

Chris Hughton admitted 10-man Brighton blew a “real good opportunity” to take a big step closer to Premier League safety by drawing 1-1 with Huddersfield.

Brighton led for just two minutes through Jonas Lossl’s own goal, before Shane Duffy’s wayward pass gifted Steve Mounie the equaliser.

Davy Propper missed a gilt-edged chance in the first minute, and was then sent off in the final quarter, for a studs-up challenge on Jonathan Hogg.

Brighton must still face Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool in a daunting run-in, with Hughton accepting Saturday’s draw as a chance missed to seize their own destiny.

“I’m disappointed and frustrated: it was a real good opportunity particularly with the start we had, up against a Huddersfield team that might have struggled to score goals but are good enough on the ball to get momentum,” said Hughton.

“But in a game where we weren’t at our best, we gifted them a goal and had the two best chances of the game.”

Asked if the nerves of a relegation battle had affected his players, Hughton continued: “Possibly. Maybe after such a good start from us, the goal slightly gave them a lift.

“But with the way they play they drop two midfield players very deep and it’s difficult to press every area. When you get joy from that you can maybe capitalise.”

Hughton admitted doubting referee Anthony Taylor’s decision to send off midfielder Propper, confirming Brighton will now consider appealing the red card.

“We’ll discuss it tomorrow and make a decision,” said Hughton of a possible appeal.

“I have to say it was harsh, and if I thought it was a red, then I would tell you.

“The reason why I think it’s harsh is because I think you’ll see that challenge numerous times every Saturday, and every Wednesday.

“It will be about the referee on the day and the way he wants to go. There are definitely referees who would not have given the red card. And from the angle from where he was I find it hard to believe he gave it.”

On defender Duffy’s stray pass that gift-wrapped Huddersfield’s equaliser, Hughton added: “It’s one of those things, he’s the first one to hold up his hands that he made a mistake.

When you’re in that position you hope any mistake that’s made doesn’t lead to a goal, but that’s what happened.”

Mounie’s finish ended Huddersfield’s goalless run of 427 minutes, leaving boss David Wagner hailing the Terriers for keeping alive their shot at the “miracle” of Premier League survival.

“Our promotion last season was a fairytale; this season, if we survive, for me, this is another level,” said Wagner.

“This would be a miracle, and the players are five games away from completing this miracle.

“These players, we have all together represented Huddersfield Town as a football club in the Premier League, where we compete against multi-billionaires and against countries.

“I’m so happy that we still have the chance to make this miracle happen.”