Chris Hughton has insisted that Brighton & Hove Albion were good value for their "hard-fought victory" against Newcastle United at the Amex Stadium.

The Seagulls earned their second successive home win in the top flight thanks to Tomer Hemed's hooked finish from six yards out after Pascal Gross's free kick was helped on.

Newcastle mustered more attempts on target and saw more of the ball, coming close to registering through Mikel Merino, Jonjo Shelvey and Joselu, but former United boss Hughton claims that Brighton were worthy winners in the end.

"It was a hard-fought victory," he told Sky Sports News. "They are a good side, They showed that in their last three games. There were not masses between the two teams.

"Overall we deserved it, not a lot in it, but we've deserved it. With seven points it is a decent return. We have learnt a lot in the game we have played so far."

Matchwinner Hemed has now played a part in 20 goals in his last 23 league starts for Brighton in the Championship and Premier League.