Aaron Mooy has made his Brighton & Hove Albion starting debut as the Seagulls scored an injury-time winner to advance in England’s Carabao [League] Cup.
The Caltex Socceroos star played the full 90 minutes as Graham Potter’s men overcame League One outfit Bristol Rovers 2-1 at the Memorial Stadium.
But it took a 92md minute goal from veteran striker Glenn Murray to get the result, as he finished off from close range from youngster Steven Alzate’s cross.
Mooy was excellent for the visitors in the heart of midfield and almost capped his first start with a goal early in the second half.
SIGNING NEWS: Juric joins Bulgarian giants CSKA Sofia
AUSSIES ABROAD: Degenek's Red Star qualify for UEFA Champions League Group Stage
The 28-year-old fashioned a metre of space just inside the box and hit a powerful, low drive which had to be tipped around the post by the Rovers keeper.
It was just Mooy’s second appearance for Brighton since making his deadline day switch on loan from his parent club Huddersfield Town.
Caltex Socceroos keeper Mat Ryan was rested for the trip to Bristol ahead of the Seagull’s clash with Premier League champions Manchester City this weekend.
Brighton, who have started the EPL season with a win, draw and loss from their first three games, go to the Etihad Stadium to face Pep Guardiola’s City at 12am on Sunday (AEST).
SCOUTING UPDATE: The youngsters who've stood out to Graham Arnold
MAKE SURE YOU'RE THERE: Tickets on sale to Caltex Socceroos v Nepal
Elsewhere, it was a tough night for Caltex Socceroos skipper Mark Milligan’s Southend United, who were beaten at home by MK Dons.
Milligan, who is the Southend captain, played a full game as his side conceded two late goals to go down 4-1 at Roots Hall.
Jackson Irvine wasn’t in Hull City’s travelling squad as they lost against Preston North End on penalties after scores were locked at 2-2 at full-time.
