Wieffer's brace propels Brighton forward. The Seagulls battle for a crucial victory, reigniting their unexpected European charge.
Albion secured a huge three points on the road, as their long trip up to Turf Moor turned into a favourable one for Fabian Hürzeler and stand-in coach Andrew Crofts!
Mats Wieffer scored a stunning brace, with goals in both halves to finish off a spirited Burnley side.
The first half was a strong showing from Brighton. Multiple chances to put the game beyond doubt could have become a theme, with the likes of Yankuba Minteh and Jack Hinshelwood having big chances.
The left side was causing Burnley problems from the start, as Minteh and Ferdi Kadioglu combined well to create multiple chances. Club legend, Pascal Gross, was instrumental towards this. Dropping into half spaces and threading passes, making life increasingly difficult for the Clarets.
The goal came about similarly, a direct run and excellent cross from Minteh fell to the feet of Wieffer, who slotted home wonderfully.
Wieffer has often been a player somewhat overseen throughout the season. Playing largely at right-back, the Dutch international ironically scored both of his goals in central positions. As we all know, Wieffer is a natural midfielder, but his goals were taken like a top number nine.
The beginning of the second half was tough. In fact, quite sluggish from the Seagulls.
Burnley were never out of the first half, and the term 'spirited' was perhaps an understatement. Causing problems, they even had the ball in the back of the Albion net on two different occasions, ruled out by VAR. Scott Parker's side were pushing for the majority of the half, and the Burnley manager was certainly backing his points that they didn't believe they were out of the fight for survival just yet.
Unfortunately for Parker, but very luckily for Brighton, the fortunes fell in favour of the Seagulls.
Wieffer finished the game off as the second half drew to a close. A goal that you'd associate with the Wieffer of old during his PSV days under Arne Slot. Edge of the box, and placed beautifully into the top corner. A brace for him, but more importantly, a vital win for Hürzeler's men to march closer towards an unexpected European dream.
Only a matter of weeks ago, it appeared as though Brighton were out of the hunt. Now, as it stands, they are just a mere three points away from possible Champions League football next season.
While it wasn't glamorous, and luck was certainly on their side, the Albion faithful will not care about that. A trip worth having for the top supporters, who continue to make the miles up no matter where they go!