Albion are off to a losing start in the Checkatrade Trophy, going down 2-1 at Luton.

But they could walk off Kenilworth Road prouder and wiser – if also exhausted – tonight after their efforts against an experienced Luton Town side in their group opener.

Having been on the defensive for 80 minutes and conceded goals to Aaron Jarvis and Jorge Grant, the young Seagulls produced a superb strike of their own.

They were pushing for an equaliser after Aaron Connolly had headed in a super cross from the outstanding Alex Cochrane on 87 minutes.

That finale plus a string of super saves from Jason Steele will be highlights of what was a tough but encouraging night for development boss Simon Rusk and his squad.

Steele made half a dozen quality stops against a Hatters side who were also denied by the woodwork.

His best came late in the first half when he changed directed to somehow keep out Arthur Read’s heavily deflected drive.