Fabian Hurzeler praises Brighton response after comeback victory over Strasbourg

Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler praised his side's character after they recovered from two goals down to beat Strasbourg 4-3 in an entertaining pre-season friendly in Vienna.

Despite expressing frustration with Brighton's slow start, Hurzeler was encouraged by the way his players responded after falling behind.

Brighton endured a difficult opening period as Strasbourg raced into a 2-0 lead following what Hurzeler felt was a lack of intensity from his team.

The German admitted his players appeared to underestimate their opponents after dominating possession early on.

"I think the first minutes we took a little bit too easy.

"We had the first action in the game where we played like 20 passes, 25 passes. We almost finished with a goal, and then I thought the players had the mindset that this would be an easy game."

After the sluggish opening, Brighton responded in impressive fashion.

Pascal Gross pulled a goal back from the penalty spot before delivering the free-kick that allowed Olivier Boscagli to level the match.

Eiran Cashin then headed the Seagulls in front from a corner before Ibrahim Osman won and converted another penalty to make it 4-2. Strasbourg grabbed a late consolation, but Brighton held on for victory.

Hurzeler was particularly pleased with the mentality his players displayed.

"After we were 2-0 down, they showed resilience. They reacted well and played with much more intensity."

The Brighton boss highlighted his side's effectiveness from dead-ball situations as another positive from the afternoon.

"I think that's very important that we are strong with set-pieces."

However, Hurzeler insisted there is still room for improvement, particularly without the ball.

"I think that's very important that we are strong with set-pieces."

However, Hurzeler insisted there is still room for improvement, particularly without the ball.

"In possession we played well. I think we controlled the game.

"Out of possession we definitely have to improve the little details."

Brighton will continue their pre-season preparations looking to build on the positive aspects of their comeback victory while addressing the defensive lapses Hurzeler highlighted before the Premier League season begins.