Ten-man Albion held on for a draw against Reading today.

But they were convinced the controversial dismissal of skipper Gordon Greer cost them their best shot at all three points.

The Seagulls drew 1-1 with their play-off rivals at the Amex after being gifted a 16th-minute lead by Chris Gunter’s own goal.

Greer was sent off for a second yellow card six minutes after the break.

Royston Drenthe cut inside to fire the Royals level 13 minutes later.

But Albion defended strongly and preserved their point.

Their biggest alarm came when Tomasz Kuszczak stood big and strong to block from the clean-through Jobi McAnuff.

And the Seagulls almost nicked it in added time when Alex McCarthy blocked Will Buckley’s shot.

Greer was shown yellow for the second time after a foul on Adam Le Fondre.

But the Seagulls were convinced referee Fred Graham – who was booed off by home fans – only produced his cards as a result of the reaction of Reading players.

The hosts led at that stage thanks to Gunter’s header past his oncoming goalkeeper as he tried to deal with David Lopez’s ball into the area.