The Seagulls saw off promoted Luton 4-1 with goals from Solly March, Joao Pedro (penalty), Simon Adingra and Evan Ferguson.
They also hit the post on three occasions.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “I think we played well – not one of the best games in my time. But we need much time to reach the same level, the same quality of play as last season. Anyway, we won a very tough game. We played well also in the first half. Maybe we could move the ball faster, change parts where we were attacking. But I am really pleased.”
De Zerbi looked unhappy with some aspects of the performance, turning away even as Albion constructed the move which saw March head the opener.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “I think in the first half we moved the ball not so fast and, when you play against 11 players behind the line of the ball, you have to move the opponent. If you want to attack in the right way, you have to be faster. Solly could play faster. Sometimes he kept the ball too much time. But Solly is a great player and I am happy for his goal because he started very well.”
