Albion are counting the cost of their smallest ever League attendance at Withdean.

A gate of just 4,395 grumbled, booed and then cheered their way through the extraordinary 2-1 defeat of Cheltenham.

The series of five successive home games, the counter-attraction of televised European action, cold weather and the Seagulls' unpromising league position were among the factors which kept fans away.

Cheltenham had just 35 fans and the away end remained closed, with Robins followers given the East Stand instead.

Albion had attempted to boost the gate by offering half-price tickets to season ticket holders and fans who had bought a full-price seat.

The previous worst League attendance at Withdean was 4,717 for a midweek draw with Walsall in November.

At least all but 35 went home happy - as goalscorer Glenn Murray insisted he always thought they would.

Murray said: "I thought we were building momentum throughout the second half. The lads are really happy. It was a major win."

Albion will be expecting a better crowd, and bigger away turnout, when Oldham Athletic visit on Saturday. They also have the re-arranged tussle with Gillingham and the relative local derby against play-off pushing Leyton Orient to come before they hit the road again.

Did you miss last night's game? If so, will the victory entice you back?