Chris Hughton admits Albion are underdogs to snatch automatic promotion in their last day showdown with Middlesbrough.

But he says needing to win has clarified the task facing his side and that Boro have more pressure and expectation on their shoulders.

Yesterday's 1-1 stalemate against Derby County at the Amex means the Seagulls head to the North-East on Saturday (12.30) requiring victory rather than just a draw to pip Boro.

Hughton told The Argus: "It is now clear for us. Sometimes when you go into a game knowing that a draw will do, a draw mentality can lead to a losing mentality.

"So we know what we have to do. We just need to show enough quality to be able to do it.

"We are up against a very good team who are at home. There is no doubt they are favourites. There is no doubt they will be pleased with the result. But we will give ourselves every chance."

Boro's record of two defeats at the Riverside Stadium is the best at home in the Championship but Albion have only been beaten twice away.

Hughton said: "We have been good away from home for a large majority of this season. We haven't lost to the teams up the top – Burnley and Derby – now we need to take that one step further and go and win a game.

"It is a big task but it is not impossible. There is no doubt there is more pressure and expectation on them. If you are in a postiion and you need to win a game, you would rather do it at home.

"We have been good away from home. We will make sure to go there without any fear and give ourselves the best chance."