Dean Hammond today set sights on fulfilling the Falmer dream born on the day he signed for Albion as a schoolboy.

The 22-year-old Sussex boy was told about the plans for a new ground when he first joined the club on YTS forms.

That was six years ago. But, as he went into action against Ipswich at a jubilant Withdean today, he insisted he never lost hope.

He said: "Of course you look ahead to playing at Falmer.

"When I signed as a YTS at the club there were plans for the new stadium.

"They showed us the plans when we looked around the club as kids and said they were exciting times then.

"But now we've got the planning permission, it's brilliant.

"There was always belief in the club they would pull it off.

"It took so long maybe you wondered Is it going to happen?' but it has happened now so it's brilliant."

Withdean was a stage for celebration when Ipswich visited at the end of last season and goalkeeper Michel Kuipers urged fans to have another party today.

He said: "The decision is so important for the future of the club. We are happy but the game today is the main thing for now and I hope the supporters turn up early and enjoy it."