A long-range strike from Kevin McLeod maintained Brighton's unbeaten start to the season with a Johnstone's Paint Trophy win over Northampton.

The midfielder blasted his winning 35-yard strike goalkeeper Chris Dunn in the 68th minute.

Dunn had earler made two fine saves to deny Matt Richards from a free-kick and a header from Glenn Murray.

Northampton's best chance fell to Leon Constantine, but his header from a Andy Holt cross floated wide.

Northampton: Dunn, Little, Hughes, Doig, Jackman (Henderson 79), Dyer (Osman 73), Guttridge, Coke (Davis 73), Holt, Constantine, Larkin.
Subs Not Used: Walker, Dolman.

Brighton: Kuipers, Whing, Lynch, Hawkins, Richards, Loft, Virgo (Cox 15), Livermore, McLeod, Forster, Murray.
Subs Not Used: Mayo, Robinson, Fraser, Elphick.

Booked: Livermore.

Goals: McLeod 68.

Att: 2,047

Ref: Pat Miller (Bedfordshire).