Albion Reserves got the club off to a winning start at The Amex today thanks to goals from Gary Hart and Steve Cook.

The Seagulls' second string beat Eastbourne Borough 2-0 on opening day in the final of the Sussex Senior Cup.

Hart's goal, on his final appearance for the club he joined in 1998, was hugely popular.

He captained the side and received a standing ovation when he was replaced just before the end.

Albion had most of the first half possession but had to wait until just before the interval to create a clear chance.

The busy George Barker, who had earlier seen a a shot saved by keeper Rikki Banks, was the recipient as Hart cut the ball back from the right.

However Barker took too long over his shot and was eventually crowded out as Banks dived at his feet.

Borough stalwart Darren Baker could have etched his name in Albion history after the break by scoring the first goal at their new home but hooked a shot just over when the hosts failed to deal with a corner.

However the Seagulls then stepped up a gear and went ahead from a corner forced by Anton Rodgers' free-kick, which Banks pushed behind.

The flag kick eventually fell to Grant Hall, who chipped the ball back across the goalmouth for Hart to dive and head home in front of the North Stand.

Banks made a couple of decent saves after that but had no chance when Cook's 83rd-minute header found the bottom corner.

Borough almost pulled a goal back when substitute Ian Pulman saw his cross come back of the bar.