Fabian Hurzeler calls for improvements after Brighton held in Tromso
The Seagulls could not find a way past Tromso keeper Jakob Haugaard.
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler knows his side will have to find a cutting edge in the second leg of their Conference League play-off against Tromso after being held to a frustrating goalless draw in Norway.
The Seagulls, who open the new domestic campaign against Aston Villa on Sunday, created several good chances but could not find a way past Tromso keeper Jakob Haugaard.
Winger Ibrahim Osman – making his Brighton debut following three loan spells away – looked particularly lively during the first half, while Yasin Ayari also later forced another decent stop from Haugaard.
Tromso then almost snatched a late winner on the break, but defender Isak Vadebu sent his shot wide as the tie went into next week’s second leg at The Amex Stadium all square.
“We expected exactly how Tromso played,” Hurzeler said, quoted on Brighton’s website.
“They defended well, very compact. They had a lot of players in their box who blocked the shots well, and they had a really good goalkeeper and were good in transition.
“We created opportunities, but in the end we have to be satisfied with a draw, although it’s not the result we hoped for.”
Hurzeler added: “Now we are looking forward to the opportunity to win the game in front of our own fans.
“There are certain aspects we have to improve against Tromso. Overall, like I said, they are a good football team so we will have to play on our highest level to win the game at the Amex.”
Hurzeler started Luka Vuskovic in defence following his club-record £46million move from Tottenham.
Midfielder Carlos Baleba, linked with Manchester United, has been carrying an ankle injury and was not involved, neither was winger Yankuba Minteh, who is a reported target for Liverpool.
Hurzeler felt his side had done enough to largely contain Tromso, but needed to be more fluid on the artificial pitch at the Romssa Stadium.
“I think we controlled the game, but we weren’t quick enough in possession,” he said.
“We still had a few opportunities, but I think overall Tromso defended well.
“They had two big chances after transition moments (where) we have to defend better. Overall (they were) a tough opponent, which is what we expected.”