ALBION are in the play-off zone, and it's a case of double delight for Richie Barker.

The in-form striker scored both goals in yesterday's stunning 2-1 triumph at Peterborough.

It lifted his tally to double figures and the Seagulls to seventh in the table.

Barker's brace and all-round contribution to Albion's eighth victory out of ten drew praise from boss Brian Horton.

"It was a magnificent win and it is hard to pick out players, but Richie gave a tremendous centre forward's display," said Horton.

"He not only scored two goals but also led the line superbly."

Barker, who has bagged five goals in as many games, said: "That is very flattering. I don't know if I will ever get a hat-trick, but I'll keep settling for two if we win.

"A lot has changed for me and the club. Eight wins out of ten is unbelievable, but there is still a long way to go."

Barker put Albion in front near the end of the first half after a Rod Thomas shot had been saved. Thomas then provided the cross for the Sheffield hitman to head his tenth of the season and take over from Jeff Minton as leading marksman.

Drewe Broughton pulled a goal back for Peterborough with five minutes left, but Albion held out in a frantic finish which included an incident involving several players from both sides and a bust-up after the final whistle between physio Malcolm Stuart and a steward.

Added Horton: "It's nice to be in the play-offs and we're going well at the moment. To get six points out of six so far over Christmas is great. The lads have worked hard and they can enjoy it now."

Horton has given the players two days off ahead of Saturday's trip to lowly Torquay, when Tony Browne and Rod Thomas are suspended and the Seagulls will be seeking an amazing seventh away win out of eight in the League.

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