Boss Chris Hughton says Albion needed to hold their surprise lead longer to halt Manchester City's Premier League title charge.
Pep Guardiola's side retained their crown from Liverpool with a closing 4-1 victory at the Amex.
Just 83 seconds divided Glenn Murray's opener with a header from a corner and Sergio Aguero's equaliser.
Hughton said: "I was delighted with the way we started, but we came up against a team who do what they do best.
"What we desperately needed was a longer period between the two goals. You know there's going to be an onslaught, but the fact their equaliser was so quick after our goal hurt us.
"It was about us staying in there for as long as possible, but I was pleased we were able to give them a game for a prolonged period."
Albion have ended the season in 17th, two places lower than last year and two points clear of relegation after Cardiff beat Manchester United at Old Trafford.
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