Mark Lawrenson gives verdict on Brighton & Hove Albion's chances of avoiding FA Cup exit this weekend

Photo by GARETH FULLER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Brighton & Hove Albion kick off their FA Cup campaign this weekend, when they take on Newport in an eagerly-anticipated Sunday evening clash.

In his weekly predictions piece for BBC Sport, pundit Mark Lawrenson backed Graham Potter's side to book their place in the fourth-round with a narrow 2-1 win over Michael Flynn's side.

Discussing his choice further, Lawro contended: "Newport have made a habit of causing FA Cup upsets at Rodney Parade in recent years.

"But Brighton have not tasted victory since 21 November and I think they will get away from Wales with a badly needed win."

The last time the two sides met, back in 2013, the Seagulls crashed out the League Cup as the Welsh side pulled off a shock 3-1 win at Falmer Stadium.

Last season, Brighton were knocked out in the third-round of the competition, with a humbling home defeat to Championship side Sheffield Wednesday.