Shortly before half-time, smoke began billowing from the goal of Jack Butland. A flare had been thrown by Crystal Palace supporters in a desperate attempt to keep Brighton at bay.
In the latest instalment of this curious rivalry, Palace were already teetering by the time they conceded a penalty and their fans sent for the pyrotechnics.
But they need not have worried. Butland cleared the flare and then saved the spot-kick. It was a few seconds that summed up his night. One spent putting out fires and staying cool as the south coast crackled.
Brighton should have won this at a canter.