Albion head coach Hope Powell praised the “tremendous character” her side showed as they claimed another big scalp by beating Manchester United 1-0 at The People’s Pension Stadium yesterday afternoon.

Inessa Kaagman’s first-half penalty (pictured below) was the difference as the Seagulls responded to their heavy defeat against Everton with a resolute performance.

The Argus:

United, locked in a two-horse tussle with Arsenal for the final European slot, had their moments but were hampered by wayward finishing and an inspired Megan Walsh.

The victory means Albion have now beaten two of the top four in the WSL in the last two months.

But Powell was full of praise for her side after they stuck to their game plan to frustrate United.

She said: “We lost our way a little bit last week, but they worked very hard this week and showed tremendous character. We played a very good side and it’s three points in the bag.

“We frustrated them quite a bit, which was the intention – to make it very difficult, as we know the quality of player they have. Everybody played a part in the success today, so we’re really pleased.

Albion looked the sharper side in the opening stages, evidently keen to play high up the field in order to negate the attacking threat of Casey Stoney’s side.

And they got their reward mid-way through the half when a deep free-kick landed right on top of Maria Thorisdottir, who proceeded to raise her arms and connect with the ball, leaving referee Abigail Byrne no choice but to point to the spot.

Kaagman’s powerfully-hit strike flew past Mary Earps to give them the lead but United were always in the contest. Millie Turner blasted a shot just over when Brighton failed to clear from a corner and the same player was inches away with a superb header from Lucy Staniforth’s delivery.

Despite losing Lauren James to injury, there was one more glorious opportunity for the Red Devils.

Captain Katie Zelem combined intelligently with Ella Toone to release Jess Sigsworth, who should have scored but was thwarted by an outstanding save from Walsh, high to her right.

Kirsty Hanson had a strong shout for a penalty turned down late on but Albion hung on to claim the points and strengthen their position in the division’s top six.