BRIGHTON blew Tottenham away to end their best-ever year in style.
Albion have followed their best Premier League finish and highest points tally by reaching the Europa League last 16 on their European debut.
And, despite having 10 players out through injury, they put Spurs to the sword by romping into a 4-0 lead before conceding a couple late on.
Jack Hinshelwood and Joao Pedro scored before the break and, when Spurs were finally threatening to make it a contest in the second half, Roberto De Zerbi sent on Pervis Estupinan to fire home a thunderbolt into the top corner before a second penalty from Pedro.
Brighton have still to keep a first clean sheet in 23 matches after late goals from Alejo Veliz and Ben Davies set up an unexpectedly nervy finish.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg hit the post during nine minutes of second-half injury time but the scoreline did not reflect the one-sided contest between these two European contenders as Brighton won only a third Premier League game in 13.
This story is from the December 29, 2023 edition of Daily Mirror UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 29, 2023 edition of Daily Mirror UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
FEARLESS BEN A BAZ SINGER
BEN DUCKETT says working with coach Brendon McCullum has taken his game to a new level – because Bazball has removed the fear factor.
BALDWIN IS ONE HELLUVA DRIVER
World No.363 Matt is lining up a shock win at Wentworth... but says he was more nervous in days when he drové his Amazon van!
HOUGHT TO END ON A HIGH
Danny says the good times will return at Hull as he prepares for his final match
Hire and higher
One of Britain's last film rental stores is enjoying the busiest time in its 29-year history, thanks to a surge in interest from nostalgia-seeking movie buffs.
Mum should be proud...she made me a warrior
Joshua's mother helped him steer away from a life of crime
FOOLISH IDEA TO MAKE DEL A MILLIONAIRE
Sir David: It ruined Fools and Horses
Dishonesty is not one of my Traits
Tall story, or will Richard be Celebrity Traitor?
Liar, lover, mother, diamond thief.. it's all true
GoT's Sophie on getting under the skin of an unlikely heroine
To friends...
Battle of Arnhem hero, 99, returns to salute the fallen
£5.5M AFTER BEING STABBED IN PRISON
Burglar left with fear of kitchens after killer's attack