Danny Welbeck’s first-half goal proved crucial as Brighton handed Newcastle their first home defeat in the Premier League since January.
This victory propels the Seagulls to fifth place in the table, while the Magpies remain in eighth.
Brighton spent much of the opening half defending, but Welbeck’s quick thinking made all the difference. The former England forward, who turns 34 next month, executed a clever one-two with Georginio Rutter before slotting the ball into the bottom right corner with the visitors’ first shot on goal of the afternoon.
Welbeck, who was carried off on a stretcher late in the match after appearing to injure his back, has now scored five goals in eight Premier League appearances this season.
Brighton’s win can also be attributed to their strong defensive performance and Newcastle’s wasteful finishing.
Eddie Howe’s side created several promising chances, with Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon both coming close, but they were unable to beat visiting goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Continued Welbeck renaissance boosts Brighton
While much of the pre-match attention was on the return of Newcastle’s star striker Isak, another forward, Welbeck, showcased his significance to Brighton.
The former Manchester United and Arsenal striker would likely have earned more than the 42 caps he currently holds for his country if not for a series of injuries that hindered him during his prime.
At 33, Welbeck is a couple of years older than his manager, Fabian Hurzeler, yet he is currently enjoying a prolific spell in front of goal as he approaches the twilight of his career.
If you were to exclude his contributions in the opposition penalty area this season, Brighton would find themselves seven points worse off, barely above the relegation zone.
Instead, they are competing with teams that have much larger budgets, all vying for Champions League positions.
Brighton’s resolute defensive performance was also highlighted late in the match when Lewis Dunk and Pervis Estupinan expertly combined to neutralize the threat posed by Miguel Almiron just eight yards from their goal.
Player of the Match: D. Welbeck