Albion’s extra intensity won them the points against “sloppy” Manchester United.

That was the verdict of pundits Micah Richards and Alan Shearer on Match Of The Day.

The long-running BBC TV highlights programme kicked off with action from the Amex on a day of seven top-flight games.

Analysis focussed extensively on how United lost rather than how the Seagulls won, although there was some praise in passing for the home team.

But stats showing more intensity from the home side were highlighted.

They showed distances covered (113.9km to 109.3 km), sprints (152 to 136) and intensive runs (3,098 to 2,856).

Former defender Richards said: “Brighton exploited Man United’s weaknesses.

“We know how Brighton like to play.

“Very comfortable at the back. They want to play through the lines with the ball.

“The urgency from Man United is not there.

“They know they are weak in midfield areas in terms of the press.”

Richards was scathing of defensive work from Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire when Welbeck opened the scoring.

He appeared to agree Maguire was wrong-footed by the Kaoru Mitoma apss which teed up Welbeck.

Richards said: “Maguire’s weight goes on to the left-hand side.

“If he had stayed in the position and engaged the ball, then Welbeck doesn’t score.”

Richards added: “The difference was just a little bit more intensity.

“Man United were too sloppy in the key moments of the game.”