One point was enough for Brighton to climb over Manchester
United into seventh place, while the Hammers stayed in sixth.
Both teams were missing starters through injury, illness and
suspension. West Ham was also without forward Mohammed Kudus, who was called up
by Ghana for the Africa Cup of Nations.
West Ham hasn’t allowed a goal in its past four league
matches — three of which were victories.
Brighton substitute Jakub Moder blazed a shot over the bar
from close range in the 87th minute at London Stadium. The visitors threatened
again minutes later but goalkeeper Alphonse Areola stretched to save Adam
Lallana’s shot from distance.
Just before the hour mark, Brighton’s João Pedro beat
several defenders but shot straight at Areola.
Tomas Soucek then missed on the other end, shooting wide in
the 61st minute after Saïd Benrahma’s cross fell to him.
Evan Ferguson provided a spark off the bench for Brighton.
The 19-year-old Ireland striker shot just wide shortly after replacing Danny
Welbeck.
MILNER MILESTONE
Brighton midfielder James Milner made his 632nd top-flight
appearance to tie Ryan Giggs for second-most in the Premier League. Milner
could pass all-time leader Gareth Barry next season.
“It’s quite a big number. It’s taken a long time,” Milner
said before the game. “I think it’s a nice thing but it’s a big game for us
tonight. We want to start the year with a win.”
The 37-year-old Milner is in his first season at Brighton
after eight years with Liverpool. He debuted with Leeds in the 2002-03 season
at age 16.
NEXT UP
Both teams face second-tier opponents in the third round of
the FA Cup. Brighton plays at Stoke on Saturday. West Ham hosts Bristol on
Sunday. -AP
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