Mick McCarthy said his Town side have to expect teams to be looking to make a mark against Blues over the rest of the season. 

A win at the Amex would have taken Town two points clear at the top of the Championship but it was the Seagulls who came out on top 3-2 in a thrilling game. 

“We didn’t play well in the first-half and the third goal on half-time probably left us too much to do,” said the Town boss. 

“I wasn’t happy with our first-half display. We stood off them too much for the goals but I have to credit Brighton, they played very well. 

“I don’t remember it ever being an easy game coming here, even though results have not gone their way as much as they would have liked this season. 

“Teams are steeling themselves for us. That is something we have to expect. We have a reputation to live up to. 

“We know we could have gone top but I’ll be surprised if us and the teams around us don’t lose again over the rest of the season. That is the nature of the league. It’s relentless. 

“Maybe one or two of our players are knackered. Players like Murph have played every minute of the season so far. I’ve told them to get away and have a break before coming back next week focused on Wigan.”