Strange times at Sussex By the Sea

My trip to see Brighton v Stockport brought unexpected levels of drama, entertainment and even a little long term intrigue. The basic facts are Stockport won 4-2, but the game included three red cards, two penalties (one saved) and some of the best goals you will see among the lower leagues. More on Stockport in a minute, but to Brighton first.

Brighton's squad looks good in theory, with plenty of experienced players like Nicky Forster and Adam Virgo, plus the purchases of some young talent, like Wolves winger Elliot Bennett (who had a good debut) and striker Liam Dickinson. However, defensively they were caught square with alarming ease and most of their play seemed too sleepy in the summer sunshine. They remain winless, and intriguingly rumours that Dennis Wise is in line to take over were circulating beforehand, and I think have even started to reach the national papers. It seems madness after Slade rescued Brighton from a desparate situation last season and was handed a two year contract. He was also given plenty of licence to recruit in the summer but a new Chairman may have new ideas. I didn't expect Brighton to be in relegation trouble again, but they have work to do to get the individuals in the squad to translate their abilities into results.

As for Stockport, they found it difficult initially, with Peter Thompson playing as a lone striker, but every so often they would produce some quality. Carl Baker's second goal was brilliant, a run from half way to the edge of the box, weaving through players, before a perfect chip 18 yards out on his apparent weak foot. Gary Ablett seems to have been welcomed by all at County, the Football League have seen common sense in allowing them to bring in a loan player, but they will still have to work very hard to stay in the division. Given the handicaps they are under financially, for now, everyone there seems to show a level of intelligence and understanding of how things are.

So what have I learnt in English Football Betting terms about these two sides? Well, inconsistency means they are not ones to risk sums on for the outright win. The way Brighton are now though, you might want to look at the over 2.5 goals for some of their matches.

Other results to catch the eye were Gateshead's comprehensive Conference win at Crawley, who infuriate with some superb and then some downright weird results, while Bradford finally got off the mark with a win at Cheltenham. Bristol Rovers meanwhile, are seemingly in good spirits and going well despite the sale of Ricky Lambert.