Chris Hughton admits a lack of quality in the quest for goals cost Albion dear again today.

The Seagulls drew a fourth successive home blank as they went down 2-0 to Watford.

Troy Deeney scored his 21st league goal of the season and Matej Vydra his 15th to seal the points for the leaders, who had to defend well at times.

Boss Hughton said: “Did we have really clearcut chances? Probably not.

“But we certainly had enough good chances and half chances.

“Bournemouth, Watford and Norwich will put away a high enough percentage to win a football match. We’re not doing that.”

Hughton was pleased with many aspects of Albion’s work as they operated a new system with three at the back and wing-backs.

He added: “I can’t fault the players for what they gave and making a system work.

“But, with the amount of crosses and balls we get into the box and the final third, if you don’t make more of it, then it’s always going to be difficult.”