Rutter rescues Brighton with late equaliser against West Ham

Brighton & Hove Albion salvaged a dramatic 1-1 draw against West Ham United in the Premier League on Sunday, December 7, as Georginio Rutter struck a stoppage-time equaliser to cancel out Jarrod Bowen’s earlier goal.
Played in driving rain and swirling winds, the first half ended goalless despite both sides creating chances. Brighton’s Rutter came close with a powerful volley, but Jean-Clair Todibo blocked his effort. West Ham nearly broke the deadlock after the interval when Bowen weaved past Brighton’s defence, forcing a fine save from Bart Verbruggen, who was immediately tested again by Crysencio Summerville’s acrobatic attempt.
The visitors eventually capitalised on a defensive lapse in the 73rd minute. Jan Paul van Hecke’s error allowed Callum Wilson to release Bowen, who slid in from a tight angle to beat Verbruggen and give West Ham hope of climbing out of the relegation zone.
Brighton pressed hard for an equaliser, and their persistence paid off in stoppage time. Rutter’s initial shot was saved by Alphonse Areola, but Van Hecke redeemed himself by setting up the French forward again, who fired low into the net. VAR checked for a possible handball but the goal stood.
The result leaves West Ham 18th with 13 points, while Brighton moved up to seventh on 23 points.