Chris Hughton has lamented Albion's defending against set pieces after another away defeat without a goal.

The Seagulls conceded twice to headers from corners in the 2-0 setback at West Brom today, the first by Jonny Evans after four minutes and the second from Craig Dawson (55).

Albion have now conceded 17 goals from set plays of all varieties in the Premier League this season, the worst record in the division, and have not scored away for ten hours and one minute.

Hughton said: "I don't think there was a huge difference in the two teams. The big difference was they were very strong on set plays and it was hugely disappointing for us to concede from another set play, particularly so early in the game (below).

The Argus: "When you are coming here to a team whose form has been indifferent, the last thing you want to do is concede a goal early to get the crowd going. You could see what they are like once they get behind the team.

"The difference was we conceded two poor goals from set plays and our work in the final third wasn't productive enough.

"We have done more work on defending set plays in the last couple of weeks than we've done all season and we've conceded again. That's a concern, particularly so early in the game. It very much puts them in the ascendency and us on the back foot."

West Brom's first win in 21 Premier League games has narrowed the gap between the sides in the relegation dogfight to four points.

Boss Alan Pardew said: "We've had some really good performances here without getting the three points, so to get the three points was really important.

"I thought the team played exceptionally well, considering the pressure we were under. It was easy to say it was a must-win game but it was a very important game in the calendar.

"We worked hard to achieve the goals and our free play in open play was as good as since I've been here so it's quite ironic that we get two set play goals - but we are strong at set plays. It all bodes well to go forward.

The Argus: "This team historically, especially under Tony (Pulis) has been very strong at set plays. Over the last six or seven months it's not been as strong, so we put some new ideas in, changed things around a little bit and had players come back to us, particularly Dawson who is a big threat. It was a great second goal (above)."