Graham Potter has hailed Brighton’s “fantastic performance” as they drew 1-1 against Chelsea on Tuesday night.
Defender Adam Webster ruled out Hakim Ziyech’s first-half strike to earn Albion a well-deserved point at the Amex Stadium.
The Seagulls were perhaps unlucky not to claim all three points against the European champions.
Manchester City have no need to send in the clowns
Head coach Potter told BBC Match of the Day: “I thought it was a good game. Both teams contested it, played with courage, quality and personality.
“I’m so proud of the players. It was a fantastic performance. All I can say is thank you to the players. They gave themselves a chance to win, but it wasn’t to be. The supporters appreciated the way they played. We take the point and move forward.
“They were brilliant and have been all season. Great atmosphere. The fans appreciated the game. We didn’t sit back, we had to be positive. Chelsea are a fantastic side. We were up against it but I’m happy with what we have done.
“We have a nice squad, good togetherness and we are happy. The back four was sensational. They defended with great courage. It’s an art to defend the way they have done.”
On Webster’s goal, Potter continued: “Adam is dangerous in those situations. He attacks the ball well. It was nice for him to get some game time. When he is playing with confidence he is a fantastic player.”
Speaking to BT Sport, the Brighton boss added: “We were well in the game and the boys could feel it was a good performance. Chelsea don’t give much away so you have to work for everything. We could maybe test the goalkeeper more but I thought we had everything.
“Adam Webster and Dan Burn were fantastic. We looked like we were enjoying our football which is important. The players give it everything and when they make a mistake they work hard and recover for each other. As a coach that’s all you can ask for.
“You could see the reaction from the supporters. They paid good money and enjoyed the performance.”
Potter has been linked with the vacant managerial role at Everton and was questioned on the rumours.
He said: “I don’t pay too much attention to it!”