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MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION: Brighton boss Chris Hughton

BRIGHTON BOSS Chris Hughton has deemed 2018 a success. The South Coast Club look well placed to hang on to their top flight status and the manager is delighted. After a hard fought 1-0 win over ambitious Everton on December 29, the Seagulls went into the new year 13th in the Premier League table with 25 points.

Hughton said: “It’s a good time to reflect on the past 12 months and my overriding feeling is of progress. We have more strength in depth to our squad than we had a year ago, which in turn gives me tactical options. Our recruitment over the past year has left us in good shape and we approach 2019 hoping to progress further, as a team and a club.

Hughton’s team backed his comments with the gutsy win over Everton to end their year on a high.

Jurgen Locadia’s 59th strike, which initially looked offside, was enough to have the Seagulls’ soaring into 2019. Locadia, who also notched a goal in the Boxing Day draw against Arsenal, looked to be seeking an advantage but the ball feel kindly to him via Andre Gomes, and the striker made no mistake from a few yards out.

Everton will feel hard done by as they opportunities to gain parity and hit the woodwork twice.By the end of the match Marco Silva had four attackers on the field as he sought to gain a point at least.

This was a big win for the hosts who look in good shape and can certainly look to target a top ten finish come next May.