Connolly says Brighton deserved Everton win

Brighton forward Aaron Connolly says their last minute winner at home to Everton on Saturday was fully justified. The Seagulls have started fairly well under Graham Potter, who took over from Chris Hughton after he was sacked the end of last season.
Potter began his reign with a comprehensive 3-0 triumph against Watford at Vicarage Road and everything looked set up nicely for the former Ostersunds man to make a big impact.
He had to wait nearly two months for his next win, as they claimed another 3-0 success – this time against struggling Tottenham, with Connolly hitting a double.
They were then beaten late on by Aston Villa last weekend as Matt Targett’s 94^th minute made the scoreline 2-1 and prevented them from getting a point before they dished out the same punishment to Everton on Saturday.
The 3-2 win did not come without controversy, however, with Everton furious at the penalty kick awarded which made the game 2-2.
Referee Andy Madley did not initially award the spot-kick after there was a collision between Connolly and Toffees defender Michael Keane but VAR overruled the on-field decision to award the penalty – the first instance of that happening this season.
Neal Maupay duly stepped up and scored before Lucas Digne’s late own goal sealed the win for Brighton.
Connolly, who is having his breakthrough season for Brighton after scoring three goals in see appearances and debuting for the Republic of Ireland, says the win was deserved and their performances have warranted more points.
He said, “It makes it a bit sweeter because of what happened last week and in the Burnley game too when we conceded in the last minute as well. “It’s just about luck going your way, and it did on Saturday. We deserved the three points after last week and from our performances in the weeks beforehand.
The Seagulls are next in action on Saturday when they face Norwich City at the Amex Stadium.