Brighton vs. Arsenal: Arsene Wenger and Chris Hughton Post-Game Reaction

Arsenal avoided falling foul of the magic of the FA Cup and edged their way past a plucky Brighton and Hove Albion, winning the game 3-2.

The holders of the famous trophy did not look like they would lose the match on Sunday, but the south coast team put in a tremendous second-half effort to almost earn themselves a result.    

But Gunners boss Arsene Wenger was quick to highlight the contribution to the game from his team, praising their work and endeavour, as quoted by Brighton reporter Andy Naylor:

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

Wenger also refused to admit his side were in any trouble on the night, despite Brighton rallying in the second half and testing Arsenal's defence.

Naylor once again quoted the Frenchman's words, also commenting on the unfair nature of his comments:

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

The manager confirmed Arsenal are now likely to complete their deal to bring Gabriel Paulista to the Emirates, with the defender due to sign from Villarreal, as ESPN FC reported.

He also lavished praise on veteran Tomas Rosicky—who grabbed Arsenal's third goal in the game and put the Seagulls to the sword—per Arsenal's official Twitter feed and Sachin Nakrani of The Guardian:

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

Wenger then spoke about the pressures his team now face in light of Arsenal being the highest-placed side in the Premier League through to the next round of the cup. He proclaimed how difficult it will be to repeat the success of last season.

However, he also acknowledged his side knew they could not underestimate Brighton if they wanted to progress, in light of the achievements of Bradford at Chelsea and Middlesbrough's victory at Manchester City:

Sang Tan/Associated Press

Brighton boss Chris Hughton was very complimentary of his team after their solid effort and spoke of his pride at their achievements against a very good Arsenal side.

Hughton spoke about his goalscorers, who nearly helped Brighton to a wonderful result, as reported by the local BBC services:

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

The returning Theo Walcott and Mesut Ozil gave the Gunners a comfortable two-goal lead at half-time, and it appeared it would be an easy afternoon for Wenger's team.

But then Brighton got their act together at the start of the second half and struck back through Chris O'Grady on 50 minutes.

The game seemed to be put to bed, though, after the brilliant Rosicky expertly finished to make it 3-1. Yet the home side carried on pushing forward, and their huge efforts were rewarded on 75 minutes as Sam Baldock grabbed the Seagulls' second.

It was too little, too late for the Championship team, and Arsenal dragged themselves over the line into the next round.

Bleacher Report's Arsenal expert James McNicholas gave his opinion after the final whistle and spoke of Rosicky's youthfulness and energy, but also questioned the quality of some of Wenger's men:

If Brighton had showed more endeavour earlier in the match they might have achieved a result on Sunday, but they surrendered two very early goals and allowed Arsenal to settle into a rhythm.

Gunners fans will be disappointed with their side's performance overall, and this could easily have been yet another amazing cup shock.

Still, Wenger will be relieved to be in the next round. With the addition of Paulista, he will feel he has the strength to capture this trophy once again.