Chris Hughton Admits Lack of Goals Is Concerning After Failing to Score in Draw Against Burnley

Brighton manager Chris Hughton admits that his side's failure to score for a third successive game is concerning, but believes his forwards have the quality to turn it around.

The Seagulls played out a goalless draw against Burnley on Saturday, although Hughton's side should've been out of sight by half time as they had the better of the chances, the best being a penalty that Glenn Murray fired over the bar towards the end of the first half.

Bryn Lennon/GettyImages

The hosts however were lucky to hold onto a point in the second period, having goalkeeper Matt Ryan to thank for a string of fine saves to preserve Brighton's point, although Hughton is worried about the lack of productivity further forward. 

Speaking post-match to Sky Sports, Hughton said: "Is is a worry that we're not scoring? Of course it is. That's normal, but it's a challenge that gives us something to work on.

"We can stay in games, but we need to find the formula to get these goals.

"Once you stop believing, it gets tougher, but I have good offensive players with belief that we can turn the corner."

Steve Bardens/GettyImages

The point for Brighton sees them remain in 13th on 18 points in their debut season in the Premier League.

Despite claiming a valuable point, Hughton felt his side could've been awarded another penalty in the first half, as James Tarkowski appeared to elbow Murray in the stomach as the Burnley defender was unhappy with the striker going down to win Brighton a penalty a few moments earlier.

Officials failed to spot the incident, but Hughton was adamant referee Chris Kavanagh would've pointed to the spot for a second time had he seen the elbow.

He continued, stating: "We should have had another penalty, when there was a good old-fashioned challenge between Murray and Tarkowski.

"At the time I thought (it was a penalty), but you're never sure. There's that balance between whether it's impeding and a penalty, or if it's strong centre-half play. 

"But seeing it again it's a swing from his elbow into his ribs, which is most definitely a penalty, and then of course he has a decision to make on whether it's a red or yellow card."

The Christmas schedule means the games come thick and fast, as Brighton now prepare for a home game against Watford next Saturday before a tough Boxing Day fixture away to Chelsea.