Brighton's seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions was brought to an end as Everton secured a 2-0 victory at Goodison Park.
Gaetan Bong's own goal and Cenk Tosun's maiden home strike handed the visitors their first defeat since the 4-0 drubbing to Chelsea in January - a loss compounded by Anthony Knockaert's red card late on.
Sam Allardyce's men leapfrog Chris Hughton's side back into the top half of the Premier League and continue their fine home form - taking 23 points from a possible 30 under the 63-year-old.
Seamus Coleman dragged a shot wide before Phil Jagielka saw a header held by Mathew Ryan as the hosts started in impressive fashion.