Brighton boss Chris Hughton delighted after FA Cup win over MK Dons

Brighton boss Chris Hughton insists progress in the FA Cup was of high priority even though he made 11 changes for the 2-0 win over MK Dons.

The Championship leaders were too strong for their struggling League One opponents before a crowd of 11,091 at the Amex Stadium.

Goals in each half for Beram Kayal and Tomer Hemed saw Albion advance from the third round for the seventh time in the last eight years.

Brighton went into the tie unbeaten in their last 18 Championship matches and Hughton said: "It was another game that we managed to win.

"It keeps the level of confidence within that group of players. It (the FA Cup) is an opportunity for us and we want to make progress.

"We are trying to get promoted and it's our number one priority, but this is part of it."

Hughton had previously made it clear that he intended to utilise his squad, and admitted that wholesale changes for cup games were becoming commonplace nowadays.

He added: "It was an opportunity to use the squad and I am really delighted to get through a tough game.

"We got a lift from the early goal which settled our nerves and we were fortunate to get the second at the right time.

"I was particularly delighted by the performances of our two full-backs, Rob Hunt and Sam Adekugbe, who gave strong 90 minute displays, while Beram Kayal was terrific for 75 minutes on his comeback."

Dons head coach Robbie Neilson felt his side paid a price for a nervous start but admitted they were beaten by a better side.

"We found it difficult at the start of the game. Brighton created chances and that was the difference," said the Scot.

"Brighton are a good team and definite promotion candidates that's for sure.We were beaten by the better side."

Albion broke the deadlock when Kayal found the bottom corner from a pass by Hemed, and Kayal later set up Hemed as Albion sealed victory.

Neilson said: "They were quality finishes. Brighton had an early chance that they scored from and both goals were quality finishes.

"These things happen in football. In the first half we didn't get off to the best start and were a bit nervous, but I was pleased with us for a 25 minute spell in the second half as we were on the front foot."

Neilson, experiencing his first taste of the FA Cup as a manager, conceded that Brighton were a real test even after making 11 changes.

He added:" They've still got quality within the side and Kayal is a player with massive experience."