Albion have had an interesting season. One that has been seemingly incomparable to others in recent times. But why?
Never before have I seen the fanbase so divided week in, week out over results and styles of play. Perhaps the very issue that could’ve been anticipated with such prominent, and fast, success.
Off the pitch, Albion have been undeniable in the transfer market. Hits after hits, profits upon profits. Rarely is there a time when Tony Bloom and co would come under fire for this.
It’s the model that sets them apart from other football clubs across the planet, recruiting some of the finest gems in the depths of obscure leagues. It’s great, we love it. However, this next part is controversial.
Of course, we’re not Manchester City, but holding onto key players and key members of staff is the next big aim. This is difficult when major clubs in football have monetary resources that clubs of our status cannot match. That is the nature of the football food chain. Unfortunately, whether we like it or not, we cannot compete at that level of finances.
I can accept that, but the piece I cannot accept is less than what we can get. I regularly watch back highlights. The 6-0 demolition of Wolves at home was almost 2 years ago to the day at the time of writing this. Goals across the pitch, but a sheer excitement and buzz whenever we had the ball.
Controlling games, building out from the back in mesmerising fashion, and almost having the smugness upon teams thinking “you think you can play us at our game?!”. Moving on as a club means losing these key players and staff.
On the eye is where football should base opinions, but statistics (boring, I know) help support thought processes. When you watch a game of football, it’s emotional. The game feels and visually looks different to how it actually was. Our recent, poetically beautiful victory over Graham Potter’s little old West Ham was perhaps a good example. Immediately after Carlos Baleba’s shot left his foot, it was like time froze for a second… followed by pure jubilation, and perhaps a dramatic sigh of atmosphereic relief?
Amongst the madness, Albion fans will be more than happy to win games ‘ugly’ if it means Brighton play in a European competition for the second time in their history. However, the point will forever remain the same, consistency will always be key.
