Albion head coach Fabian Hurzeler looked bitterly disappointed after the Seagulls' 1-1 draw with Southampton at the Amex.

Hurzeler admitted his team did not meet their usual standards, especially in the second half.

When asked about his feelings at full-time, Hurzeler said: "Not the best emotions. That's part of football, though.

"Disappointment and negative experiences are part of the process.

"We didn't deserve more today, so we have to keep improving, keep pushing, and try to be better next game."

The head coach identified missed opportunities in the first half and a lack of defensive stability as key issues.

He said: "We had enough chances to win the game, but we didn't use them.

"In the second half, we weren't clear or stable enough defensively, and that cost us."

Hurzeler said Joel Veltman, who missed the match due to a "small issue."

The manager explained his decision to bring captain Lewis Dunk off the bench, citing the strong performances of Ego and Jan Paul van Hecke in recent weeks.

He said: "It wasn't an easy decision, but Lewis showed his impact and leadership when he came on.

"He will continue to be vital for us."

Despite the draw, Albion moved second in the Premier League pending results over the weekend.

Hurzeler acknowledged this achievement but emphasised the need to focus on performances over results.

He said: "We have to be honest with ourselves—this can't be our identity or style of play, especially in front of our home fans.

"We need to apologise for the second half and be critical of ourselves."

He added: "We're still searching for that 90-minute form.

"It's something we'll continue to work on, starting with the next game."

The Seagulls will now prepare to bounce back in their next Premier League fixture at Fulham next Thursday.