Brighton star Diego Gomez channelled his inner David Beckham with a remarkable goal from the halfway line against Crystal Palace. 

His strike, a goal of the season contender, helped move Brighton up to second in the Premier League in a thumping first-half performance which saw them go 3-0 up. 

Paraguay international Gomez, 23, took control of the ball inside his own half and turned, taking aim from the halfway line to beat Palace goalkeeper Walter Benitez with a right-footed shot.

Brighton had already taken the lead in the 4th minute thanks to an own goal by Jaydee Canvot, and by the 10th minute they were 3-0 up after Yasin Ayari got on the scoresheet. 

Holding on to victory would see Brighton go second behind Manchester City, who have a flawless record but are in limbo after being found guilty of financial rule breaks.   

Ironically, Gomez used to play for the Beckham-owned Inter Miami - and his effort was reminiscent of the long-range scorcher scored by the former Manchester United man against Wimbledon in 1996. 

'Would you look at that! Diego Gomez with a goal that the Brighton fans will never forget,' purred Sky Sports commentator Bill Leslie. 

'It didn't seem possible, it shouldn't have been possible. It's just become a glorious Brighton reality. 

Palace custodian Benitez went pale as Brighton's team wheeled away in celebration with Gomez, who geed up the crowd and kissed the badge on his shirt.

More to follow.