Albion enjoy high life

Saturday's 1-0 home win against Port Vale and Brentford's 3-2 defeat at Stoke took the Seagulls back to the Second Division summit.

They were there for a fortnight in September, but the lead will only last 72 hours this time if Stoke win at Wigan tomorrow night.

Midfielder Carpenter said: "Not many people thought we would be top of the table. We didn't play particularly well, but it was three valuable points.

"We have come up from the Third Division and now we are sitting on top of the Second, so it's a big plus for us.

"We have got to enjoy it, make the most of it and not get carried away with it because it's early days, but that is what we are capable of."

Bobby Zamora's 13th goal of the season and 50th for the club in total was enough to earn Albion their 15th Withdean win out of 16.

"That is why he is being touted at £3 million," Carpenter said. "He is probably one of the hottest properties outside the Premier League. I just hope we can keep hold of him."

Boss Peter Taylor, still unbeaten since taking charge, said: "It's nice to get 13 points out of 15 and it's nice for the chaps to be top, but there's a long way to go. It's been a great start by the players.

"Bobby is a very good goalscorer. Nobody knows at the moment if he would score as regularly in the Premiership and that's the big question.

"I thought it was one of his poorest games and that is what people will be looking at as well. It's up to the big boys to make their decisions. Everyone wants a goalscorer and thankfully we have got one."

Vale manager Brian Horton believes his old club are capable of sustaining their challenge. The former Albion boss and captain said: "They are solid at the back and the home record is what it's all about.

"They are on a great run and they've got a chance. It's very open. I think it's anybody's and they are one of the form teams."

Albion have changed ticket arrangements for Saturday's home FA Cup tie against Shrewsbury. They are now on general sale from today.