Albion have been drawn at home to fierce rivals Crystal Palace in the third round of the FA Cup.

The tie on the first weekend in January follows last Tuesday's 0-0 Premier League stalemate between the sides at the Amex, which was marred by crowd disturbances.

The only previous FA Cup clash between the clubs, in 1976, turned into a renowned trilogy.

Alan Mullery's Seagulls drew 2-2 at home against Terry Venables' Eagles and 1-1 away before losing the second replay on neutral territory at Stamford Bridge 1-0.

It proved to be the catalyst for the enduring rivalry.

Mullery, now Albion's ambassador, had a pot of hot coffee poured on him by Palace fans.

He said: "I pulled a handful of change out of my pocket, threw it on the floor and shouted, 'That's all you're worth, Crystal Palace'."

Current Albion boss Chris Hughton and counterpart Roy Hodgson will have a dilemma over the strength of the teams they field.

The tie falls after seven Premier League games in 24 days for Albion, seven in 25 for Palace, who will have less time to prepare.

Albion's previous game is at home to Bournemouth on January 1 (12.30), Palace are at Southampton the following night (7.45pm).