View from rival

I have a great deal of empathy for Brighton (having lived in Sussex for 27 years) and the troubles they have gone through.

My own club, Southampton, had similar troubles, albeit went broke as opposed to losing our ground.

It is great that Falmer is going up and, hopefully, will attract big crowds back to watch Brighton once again.

It is good that the rivalry between the two sides has been renewed but the comparisons should stop there.

It was 1960 when Brighton last finished above Saints in the league. Something they may correct (but unlikely) this season, but only after 50 years of trying.

However, Ian needs to remember that the crowd at St Mary’s for last week’s game that he enjoyed wouldn’t all have got into Falmer, and there was room for another 6,000.

I am sure Falmer will be magnificent for Brighton, but at 45 per cent smaller, it is a bit like comparing St Mary’s to Anfield.

I am glad he enjoyed the atmosphere, but I suggest he come along to Saints v Pompey to experience atmosphere and rivalry (I don’t know how it compares to Brighton v Palace).

Finally, Brighton are clearly a good side on the up, I just hope the tactic of passing back to the goalkeeper, who then just stands there for as long as possible, was only used for that game, otherwise they won’t fill the Withdean, let alone Falmer.

Andrew Goddard

Offington Lane

Worthing