Disappointment For Balogun As He Earns A Rare Start In Brighton’s FA Cup Loss

Super Eagles defender, Leon Balogun made his first start this season, but it ended in disappointment as  Brighton lost 1-0 to Sheffield Wednesday in FA Cup third-round encounter between the two sides at The American Express Community Stadium on Saturday.

The Nigerian international has not played for the Seagulls in the Premier League this season with his sole appearance coming in the Carabao Cup against Bristol Rovers.

But he was handed a shock start on Saturday, although he would have hoped for a better result. The former Mainz defender had a fair display in the first 45 minutes before he was substituted few minutes into the second half for Aaron Connolly.

Adam Reach struck a second-half winner for Sheffield Wednesday to ensure they beat a Premier League opposition in the FA Cup for the first time in 27 years.

Owls winger Reach smashed home a deflected drive from the edge of the box 25 minutes from time to earn the Championship side a narrow third-round success at the Amex Stadium.

Nevertheless, Balogun will hope his performance against Sheffield Wednesday will be enough to convince Brighton manager, Graham Potter ahead of next weekend Premier League clash against Everton.