Brighton defeated Europa League winners Aston Villa 4-0 at the Amex Stadium to make a statement on the first weekend of the Premier League season.

Before the half, Fabian Hurzeler’s team jumped out to a four-goal advantage, and Villa’s afternoon took a turn for the worst when Joao Gomes, a recent addition, was sent off.

After the visitors made a terrible error, Brighton broke the impasse in just eight minutes.

Maxim De Cuyper was the recipient of a blind pass from Pau Torres within his own penalty area. De Cuyper’s shot hit the post before bouncing into the net off Victor Lindelof.

Ten minutes later, the Belgian defender increased Brighton’s lead with a close-range goal following a well-timed run and cut-back by Georginio Rutter.

Emiliano Buendia’s goal in the first five minutes gave Villa a strong start, but they soon lost control of the game.

Diego Gomez knocked De Cuyper’s ball back across goal for Jack Hinshelwood to tip in, giving Brighton a third goal in the thirty-first minute.

After Yasin Ayari gained control inside the Villa box, Hinshelwood scored again a minute later, giving the visitors a significant deficit prior to halftime.

Gomes’ dismissal after a VAR review just before halftime added to Villa’s misery.

After the incident was reviewed, the Brazilian player, who had already been booked, kicked out at Rutter and received a straight red card.

It left Unai Emery’s club with a mountain to climb after the summer signing’s terrible competitive debut.

After the interval, Brighton was unable to increase their lead, but the damage had already been done.