ALBION skipper Paul Rogers has revealed his relief at ending a long goal drought.

Rogers opened the scoring in last night's vital 2-0 victory against lowly Exeter at Withdean.

His first goal since October 6 sparked the Seagulls to a seventh successive home win and three more precious promotion points.

"It has been a long time coming," Rogers admitted. "It was the first shot I seem to have had for about six weeks and it was nice to see it go in.

"Unfortunately it didn't settle us down to play our football. We have just got to take heart from the points.

"It didn't feel like we had won in the dressing room afterwards. We under-achieved, but after a couple of defeats we will take the win."

Gary Hart wrapped up Albion's early Christmas present when his second half cross was deflected in by former Seagull Jamie Campbell, but boss Micky Adams was also critical of the display.

"It wasn't a classic game," he said. "I was pleased with the result rather than the performance.

"I think we are low on confidence at the moment. You go through peaks and troughs during the season and we are going to have to battle our way through it."

Exeter had TEN players booked by referee Paul Rejer and Albion three, including Charlie Oatway, who is now suspended for the home game against Lincoln on January 6.

Rogers added: "There wasn't one of those for Exeter which wasn't a booking. I wouldn't point a finger at the referee at all."

Matthew Wicks went off in the first half with a hamstring strain and now faces a fight to be fit for a Boxing Day showdown with dad Steve, the new coach at Barnet.

Albion have closed the gap on leaders Chesterfield to three points ahead of today's Third Division programme.