Rutter scores twice as Brighton win big and go top in Conference League
Georginio Rutter scored twice and set up one as Brighton thrashed Kauno Zalgris 4-0 to get their Conference League campaign off to a winning start.
Key points
- Georginio Rutter scored twice and set up another as Brighton beat Kauno Zalgris 4-0.
- Brighton's win was their fifth straight in all competitions this season.
- Brighton host Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday.
Brighton began their Conference League campaign with a 4-0 home win over Lithuanian Cup winners Kauno Zalgris. Georginio Rutter scored twice and provided an assist, while Hinshelwood and Matt O'Riley also found the net.
The match at the Amex Stadium saw Brighton dominate from start to finish. Rutter's opening goal was awarded after a VAR review, and the win extended Brighton's run to five consecutive victories in all competitions.
How the goals came
Rutter gave Brighton the lead in the 43rd minute after a VAR check, turning in Ibrahim Osman's cross. On the stroke of half-time, Rutter turned provider, crossing for Hinshelwood to score.
Malick Yalcouye's run set up Osman, whose cross allowed Rutter to score his second in the 53rd minute. Matt O'Riley headed in a fourth on 67 minutes, his first Brighton goal since August 2025.
We showed a good performance, a disciplined performance, a performance where we kept a clean sheet
— Fabian Hurzeler
Manager and analysis
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler praised his side's display. "We showed a good performance, a disciplined performance," he said, adding that the depth of the squad would be key this season.
Sky Sports News' Sophie Evans described it as a convincing win, noting fans are already confident of a strong run. Brighton were already favourites for the Conference League, and the dominant performance reinforced that view.
