Brighton produced a thumping victory against Aston Villa in sweltering conditions to kick off the campaign in style.
There was plenty for supporters to savour following this commanding 4-0 triumph.
Our match audio examines the season’s curtain-raiser as Brighton overcame opponents against whom they have suffered numerous setbacks over the years.
We consider the cheerful supporter songs alongside the more considered message of encouragement delivered on the field.
And we examine whether the second period truly fell short of expectations or simply represented a job completed effectively, particularly given the context.
That context involves this fixture falling between the two legs of a European tie.
And one where Brighton still face considerable work in the return encounter.
It quickly became apparent that much of the attention before and after the match would centre on Aston Villa.
But our audio roundup keeps the attention firmly on the home side.
Victor Lindelof’s unfortunate own goal and a close-range finish from Maxim De Cuyper put Brighton on track for a commanding opening-weekend success.
Hinshelwood’s rapid brace took the contest away from Unai Emery’s stunned side before midfielder Joao Gomes was dismissed on his league debut five minutes before the interval to compound Villa’s problems.