End of season fun in Tyneside sun: Newcastle 1-1 Brighton photos
Questionable fancy dress for the final away day of the season has long been a tradition amongst Brighton fans and as these photos from the Albion’s 1-1 draw at Newcastle United show, there was a lot of fun being had in the Tyneside sun.
Just Stop Oil. Baby Shark for reasons nobody can fathom. A couple of police horses in reference to that time a Newcastle supporter infamously punched one after Newcastle lost a Tyne-Wear Derby against Sunderland.
There were even Toon fans willing to recreate the moment outside St James’ Park. Which we obviously cannot condone in the slightest.
On the pitch, the journey proved worthwhile for Albion supporters who could have been forgiven for fearing the worst before kick off.
Newcastle came into proceedings averaging three goals per game at St James’ Park since mid-January. Brighton had lost 4-1 on their previous visit to Newcastle 12 months ago.
The Albion though gave an excellent defensive performance on this occasion to earn a point. They soaked up pressure at one end and looked dangerous playing on the break. Particularly in the first half with Julio Enciso producing a masterful display in the number 10 role.
Joel Veltman gave Brighton the lead after 18 minutes with what the Dutch defender himself described as his annual goal.
A Pascal Gross corner was flicked on by Danny Welbeck to the back post. Lurking was Veltman to turn home from close range, reducing the decibel levels around what had been a raucous St James’ in the process.
Veltman limped off injured five minutes before half time and 10 minutes later, Newcastle were level. The confusion sewn by the enforced change at right back saw Anthony Gordon lead Gross and Veltman replacement Tariq Lamptey on a merry dance.
The ball was eventually crossed low and hard to the back post, leaving a tap in for Sean Longstaff in the fifth minute of injury time.
There were no further goals after the break. Newcastle did put the ball in the back of the net via Gordon. However, it was correctly ruled out for offside.
A useful point for the Albion to close what has been an unforgettable season on the road. It started in Wolverhampton, ended in Newcastle and took in Marseille, Amsterdam, Athens, Rome and, er, Luton along the way.
If you have any photos you would like included in our Newcastle 1-1 Brighton gallery please e-mail them to wearebrighton@hotmail.co.uk or tweet them to us @wearebrighton
