Brighton within sight of promotion thanks to Knockaert magic

Brighton moved nine points clear of third-placed Huddersfield in the Championship as the Premier League edges ever closer after a comfortable home win against an insipid Derby County, whose manager Steve McClaren said he is “certain” the Seagulls will be promoted.

This was Brighton’s 23rd league win of the season and they will not have had many easier as they drew level on points with Newcastle at the top. Once the outstanding Anthony Knockaert had drifted off the right flank, baffled Julien de Sart and driven the ball low into the bottom right corner after five minutes, the result was never in doubt.

“I thought we were very good from start to finish,” said the Brighton manager, Chris Hughton. “I think it was a very good all-round performance but Anthony’s produced for us all season and 13 goals from a wide player and assists as well – I think in any division that’s exceptional.”

Brighton might have been several goals up before Glenn Murray and Sam Baldock exchanged passes for the latter to add a second just before half time.

“It was a reality check – we’ve had quite a few,” admitted McClaren. Derby were at least more spirited after the introduction of Craig Bryson and Will Hughes for the second period but aside from a Matej Vydra header against the post, they rarely threatened the home defence.

Murray wrapped up victory with 12 minutes to go when the irrepressible Knockaert hooked in an inviting cross from the left for the 33-yearold striker to smash in a volley at the near post.