The word is out on Albion’s in-form under-18s – and boss Simon Rusk is delighted about it.

His young Seagulls grabbed a 1-1 draw at West Bromwich Albion after passing a different kind of test on Saturday.

Rusk has had his side sitting deep and hitting on the counter-attack on the way to second place in the Barclays Under-18 Premier League, south group.

But this time West Brom played that role. And the Seagulls came through with a point thanks to Jordan Maguire-Drew’s added time goal.

Albion have enjoyed impressive wins over Chelsea, Southampton, Spurs and Aston Villa in recent weeks.

They are now level on points with leaders Chelsea having played one more game.

And teams are setting out to stop them playing.

Rusk said: “West Brom had done their homework on us over the last four or five games and knew we move the ball well.

“They sat off us and caused us problems on the counter attack so it was a good learning experience for the boys.

“They were also physically strong but, when they got their goal, it seemed to inspire us.”

Connor Tighe missed an 88th minute penalty but the Seagulls kept pressing and Maguire-Drew finished after a corner.

Rusk added: “I was really pleased with the boys.

“They definitely came away from the game with more experience of how to play against opponents who are dropping off you and challenging you to break them down.

“That’s exactly what we have done to other sides.”