Danny Welbeck emerged as Brighton’s hero after scoring a late extra-time winner to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over Newcastle United in the Emirates FA Cup.
Newcastle made the brighter start and took the lead in the 22nd minute when Alexander Isak calmly converted from the penalty spot.
However, Brighton responded just before halftime as Yankubah Minteh finished a fine move after being set up by Joao Pedro. Softfootball gathered that the equaliser shifted the momentum in Brighton’s favour.
The contest became increasingly tense in the closing stages, with Anthony Gordon and Tariq Lamptey both shown red cards after separate incidents, reducing each side to 10 men.
Newcastle thought they had snatched victory in stoppage time, but VAR ruled out their goal, sending the tie into extra time.
Welbeck eventually settled the contest in the 114th minute with a composed finish, sealing Brighton’s place in the quarter-finals.
The defeat also dealt Newcastle another blow, with Gordon set to miss the upcoming Carabao Cup final against Liverpool through suspension, leaving Eddie Howe with a major selection headache ahead of the Wembley showdown.
