Albion threw themselves a lifeline tonight and probably relegated Hereford in the process.

The Seagulls were comfortable 2-1 winners at Edgar Street and are now five points from the coveted 20th place and safety.

Victory sets things up nicely for Saturday's six-pointer with Swindon at Withdean.

A purposeful start by the Seagulls was rewarded in some style in only the ninth minute.

Lloyd Owusu knoked down an Andrew Whing high ball and Tommy Fraser finished with a spectacular overhead scissors kick.

Albion, with Craig Davies very effective in build-up play, dominated the first half and the main concern was that they did not score a second goal.

Davies rifled a shot against the bar from outside the box in the second half.

The clincher came 15 minutes from time when sub Gary Hart flicked the ball on and Owusu coolly found the bottom corner with a precise left-foot finish.

That proved to be the winner because Kris Taylor rifled in a late, late consolation for the outclassed hosts, seconds after Michel Kuipers had saved a Steve Guinan penalty.