Albion scored three goals in a late nine-minute blast to clinch their place in the third round of the League Cup tonight.

They also welcomed back defender Uwe Huenemeier from a long-term groin injury as they won 4-2 at Oxford.

Huenemeier played a little more than an hour as skipper for a Seagulls side who were made to work hard before pulling away late on.

The Argus:

They had a dream start through Sam Adekugbe’s powerful finish after just 68 seconds. Further chances came and went, the best missed by Kazenga LuaLua, before Wes Thomas levelled on 28 minutes.

Oxford were bright after the interval but LuaLua thumped Albion back in front on 76 minutes from outside the box.

The Seagulls then had a double escape as Niki Maenpaa saved well from the unmarked Josh Ruffels and John Lundstram fired the resulting loose ball against the bar.

The Argus:

As Albion countered, Ollie Norwood sent Elvis Manu – who had gone close several times – racing clear to add a neat finish.

Tomer Hemed slid home the fourth on 85 minutes from a low cross by fellow sub Sam Baldock.

Dan Crowley replied for Oxford deep into added time.