For the second season in a row Brighton just about escaped relegation, after the Seagulls had all sorts of problems in the spring, and they need to thank the points gathered before Christmas for their survival.
The start was good with Brighton winning 4 of their opening 10 Premier League games, including a famous 3:2 home success vs. Man United. This was the period when veteran Murray, turned 36 during the campaign, was at his best. The striker kept scoring important goals all campaign, but really he hit top form in these early months.
The problems started piling up when December arrived, with Brighton winning just 1 in 12 between rounds 16 and 28. This brought collapse in the danger zone. By that point Murray’s age was starting to show, plus important goalkeeper Ryan missed 4 rounds due to international duties.
Crucial for their survival proved to be the first 2 games in March when narrow wins over Huddersfield and Crystal Palace, the last Brighton wins of the season, accumulated just about enough points.
If nothing else the fans got excited about the FA Cup this season too with Brighton going all the way to the semi-finals and enjoying a day at Wembley.
After getting away with it for a second consecutive year, Brighton were quick to sack coach Hughton after the last round, and it seems that this summer will be about rebuilding the squad under a new manager. Also the team can’t really rely on soon-to-be 37 Murray for another 10+ goal campaign.
