Brighton proved that they are still well and truly within the automatic promotion race after recording an emphatic 5-0 win over struggling Fulham.

Israeli striker Tomer Hemed was the man of the moment as he scored a hat-trick as his side went on to beat the Cottagers comprehensively.

Hemed converted a penalty in the 29th minute to open the scoring for the Seagulls, and he made it two before the break when he found the back of the net from an Anthony Knockaert free-kick.

Chris Hughton's side continued to dominate in the second half when right-back Bruno was given time from a corner to convert his side's third of the night nine minute after half-time.

Hemed completed his hat-trick with a tap in 11 minutes from time before the impressive Knockaert made it five with a magnificent curling effort from the edge of the box.

Here's THREE we learned from the game:

1) The Seagulls still well within the race for the top two

Pre-match, Middlesbrough and Burnley, were most people's favourites to finish in the top two places by the end of the season, but the Seagulls shouldn't be written off just yet.

With the Seagulls playing on the Friday night, they had the chance to show that they were not going to give up on the race for the top two and really make a statement of intent.

They certainly did that and didn't do their goal difference too much harm either and with the top two facing each other on Tuesday, this week could be a pivotal one in Brighton's season.

2) Fulham's defence is shambolic

A squad with the quality that Fulham possess should have been challenging for a play-off place, not battling relegation, and much of this has been due to their poor defensive record.

In 42 games this season they have conceded 72 times, only the bottom two clubs Charlton and Bolton have conceded more goals this season than Slavisa Jokanovic's side and the defence must improve.

Fulham's fans and board will want promotion next year and defensive reinforcements are essential to that.

3) Tuesday will be massive in the race for the top two

Although Brighton found themselves out of the top two due to Middlesbrough and Burnley's wins on Saturday, they could find themselves back in it if results go their way on Tuesday night.

League leaders Boro travel to Turf Moor and a win for the away side, as well as victory for the Seagulls at home to QPR, will see them climb back up to second.

And while anything over than a win will mean Brighton stay third, they will be within touching distance of the top two.

Brighton and Fulham fans...What did you make of the match? Will the Seagulls finish in the top two? Where can Fulham finish next season? Let us know what you think in the comments below!