Knock out blow for The Owls

Anthony Knockaert’s second half strike helped Brighton and Hove Albion secure a 2-1 away win at Sheffield Wednesday.

Sam Baldock put the visitors ahead after getting on to the end of a fantastic through ball from Lewis Dunk. The striker lobbed the oncoming Wednesday ‘keeper Keiren Westwood with a clever half volley for his second goal of the season.

Glenn Murray thought he had put his side two goals clear just minutes later. His thunderous volley however was disallowed after being flagged for offside.

The first half was significantly dominated by the travelling side but this game was certainly a tale of two halves as Sheffield Wednesday came out as a much more inspired side after the break.

The Owls were forced to replace their goalkeeper at half time as Republic of Ireland international Westwood picked up an injury during the first half. Third choice stopper Cameron Dawson replaced him to make his debut for Wednesday having spent part of this season on loan at Wycombe Wanderers.

The hosts bombarded David Stockdale in the Brighton goal constantly throughout the second half but they lacked when it came to the final product. Steven Fletcher had a handful of chances whilst Adam Reach missed a very close range chance which he should have at least got on target.

Knockaert put his side two goals to the good with just over 20 minutes remaining. A low driven cross by Geatan Bong picked out the French midfielder who continued his recent string of good performances and smashed home his shot from close range.

The hosts did get a consolation goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time. A cross towards the back post found Kieran Lee, he set up Fletcher whose acrobatic effort was saved and the ball rebounded out towards second half substitute Gary Hooper who struck the rebound towards goal as his shot deflected past ‘keeper Stockdale.

The win keeps Brighton in fourth place going into the international break with an impressive five game unbeaten streak in the league, which they will hope to continue going into their fixture after the break at home to Preston North End.

Wednesday’s lack of pace going forward clearly showed as Brighton defended extremely well, particularly during the second half. The hosts slip to ninth in the Championship table and they will hope to turn their fortunes around when they face a trip to current league leaders Huddersfield Town.