Hurzeler criticises Brighton’s lack of intensity despite Getafe win

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler said his side were too “lazy” at times despite Malick Yalcouye’s second-half header securing a 1-0 victory over Getafe in the Conference League.

Yalcouye scored in the 64th minute to give Brighton their first European win in the match and restore their winning form in the competition.

Brighton had to work patiently against a Getafe side focused on defending deep, with Hurzeler acknowledging that his team struggled to find a way through their opponents’ defensive structure.

“It was what we expected,” Hurzeler told TNT Sports. “The games in the Conference League are different; you have to beat the low block and you have to be patient.”

The German was pleased with the result but said Brighton’s performance did not reach the level he expected from his players.

“We didn’t play our best game; we had moments where we were lazy,” he added. “But we kept a clean sheet and scored a goal. We deserved to win this game.”

Despite their shortcomings, Hurzeler praised the team for adapting to the demands of the contest and finding a decisive moment after the break.

“It is always important to find solutions. I have to give praise to my team,” he said.

“My players did it today, not at the highest level, but we had to win it.”

The victory gives Brighton a valuable three points in Europe, with Yalcouye’s goal proving enough after the visitors had struggled to break down Getafe’s organised defence.

Hurzeler’s side will now switch their attention back to the Premier League, when they host Brentford at the American Express Stadium on Sunday.