Mats Wieffer ended his long goal drought in style, scoring twice as Brighton secured a hard-fought win over struggling Burnley to strengthen their push for European football.
The victory moves the Seagulls to within two points of sixth-placed Chelsea, while Burnley edge closer to relegation, sitting 12 points from safety with just six games remaining.
It was another frustrating afternoon for the Clarets at Turf Moor.
Jaidon Anthony thought he had given the hosts an early lead, only for his effort to be ruled out for offside - a sign of how their day would unfold.
Brighton gradually took control and nearly broke the deadlock midway through the first half when Danny Welbeck failed to capitalise after a mix-up involving Maxime Esteve and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.
Their pressure finally paid off just before the break, as Wieffer arrived in the box to convert a low cross from Pascal Gross.
Brighton could have extended their lead before half-time, but Welbeck and Jack Hinshelwood both missed good opportunities.
Burnley’s frustration continued after the restart.
Bashir Humphreys had a close-range effort ruled out for offside, while Zian Flemming was denied by a sharp save from Bart Verbruggen.
As Burnley pushed for an equaliser, Brighton remained dangerous.
Hinshelwood forced a save from Dubravka before Wieffer sealed the win in the closing moments with a composed strike from the edge of the box - his first goals since December 2024.
The win marks Brighton’s third in a row and continues an impressive resurgence under Fabian Hurzeler.
They have now won five of their last six matches and remain firmly in the hunt for a top-six finish.
Despite watching from the stands due to a touchline suspension, Hurzeler’s influence was clear as his side pressed effectively, controlled possession, and showed discipline throughout.
With regular goalscorers kept quiet, Wieffer stepped up in style, marking his return from injury with a decisive contribution.
For Burnley, the defeat leaves their survival hopes hanging by a thread.
With just one league win since October, they face a daunting task to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
There were moments of promise - with two disallowed goals and Flemming going close - but a lack of cutting edge once again proved costly.
Despite a spirited display and 10 attempts on goal, Burnley were ultimately undone by Brighton’s efficiency.
With crucial matches against fellow strugglers still to come, the Clarets must find results quickly if they are to keep their slim survival hopes alive.
