Albion have learnt the full value of their derby success – after two of their survival rivals also won.

The Seagulls are still five points above the Premier League drop zone this evening.

That was how things stood at midday before goals from Glenn Murray and Anthony Knockaert secured three points at Selhurst Park in the early kick-off.

Cardiff and Southampton then responded in style in 3pm games.

Goals from Junior Hoilett and Victor Camarasa saw Cardiff to a 2-0 home win over West Ham.

But the Bluebirds remain in the drop zone, on 28 points, after Saints came from a goal down to win 2-1 at home to Tottenham.

Goals in the last 14 minutes from Yan Valery and James Ward-Prowse did the damage and put their side on to 30 points.

Burnley, also on 30, are now three points behind 15th-placed Allbion ahead of their trip to Liverpool tomorrow.

Both Albion and Crystal Palace have 33.

Albion resume league action after the break for FA Cup and international matches when Southampton visit the Amex for a six-pointer three weeks today.

But the Seagulls remain some way from being safe, despite their sweet success over the old enemy this afternoon.