Brighton open new campaign with emphatic victory over Everton

Brighton & Hove Albion opened the new Barclays Women’s Super League campaign with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Everton at Broadfield Stadium this afternoon.

Kiko Seike bagged a hat-trick on her Brighton & Hove Albion debut while Fran Kirby also netted on her maiden appearance for The Seagulls. 

Both sides looked to create chances early on but neither could carve out a significant opening. In the 15th minute, Pauline Bremer was unable to convert from a Seike cross for the home side. 

Just before the half-hour mark, Seike broke the deadlock for Brighton & Hove Albion with a debut goal. Her exceptional curling finish from distance found the back of Courtney Brosnan’s net, giving the home side the advantage. 

Everton looked to respond and Toni Payne delivered a dangerous cross but the ball was cleared away by the hosts.

Following a dominant first half, Brighton & Hove Albion’s advantage was doubled in the 56th minute. Seike headed home from a Poppy Pattinson cross as she collected her second goal of the game.

The hosts were awarded a penalty following a Sara Holmgaard hand ball in the box. Kirby netted a debut goal after stepping up to convert from the spot, sending Brosnan the wrong way in the process.

Seike completed her debut hat-trick in the 75th minute with a strike from 25 yards out, making it 4-0 for the hosts. 

Everton finished the game with ten players. Aurora Galli went down injured and had to be taken off minutes from the end.. 

Following this afternoon’s win, Brighton & Hove Albion return to Barclays Women’s Super League action next weekend when they travel to Manchester City. Everton will play host to Manchester United at Walton Hall Park.