Making their first top-flight appearance since 1991/92, having risen from the fifth tier in less than a decade, Luton’s fairytale ascension to the PL started with a stern test.
A trip to Brighton was likely to be anything but a summer vacation for the Hatters, and within 10 minutes, they were reminded of just that, as João Pedro spurned a golden opportunity from close range, granting Luton a reprieve.
The PL new boys held firm for the majority of the first half, but the Seagulls’ dominance eventually told as Solly March rose highest to head in Kaoru Mitoma’s cross.
Undeterred, Carlton Morris nearly found an instant response from a corner, only to be denied by the feet of Jason Steele. Nevertheless, the half ended with the hosts very much on top, as Danny Welbeck struck the upright on the stretch.
Given their narrow lead, Roberto De Zerbi’s side couldn’t afford to take their foot off the gas, and as such, momentum remained in their favour.
Quick thinking from Pascal Groß almost resulted in a second goal for Brighton, yet his free-kick from a tight angle could only find the neat post.
Luton weren’t without an attacking threat of their own, but a clumsy challenge from Tom Lockyer on João Pedro, allowed the Brazilian to fire beyond Thomas Kaminski from the spot for his debut goal.
With 10 minutes to play, Morris converted from the spot for the Hatters’ first-ever PL goal, yet thoughts of a comeback were swiftly quashed.
Much has been made of Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu’s unprecedented rise from non-league to the PL with Luton, but the midfielder was fully at fault when substitute Simon Adingra pounced on his error to put the game to bed.
Evan Ferguson hit the post late on before sliding in for Brighton’s fourth as they comfortably saw out an opening-weekend victory for a side that will be playing European football for the first time in their history this season.
Meanwhile, Rob Edwards’ side were unable to replicate Brentford's 2021 achievement by winning their debut PL match, instead turning his attention toward a tough trip to Stamford Bridge up next.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton & Hove Albion)