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Against a team packed with league appearances, with manager Andy Preece and his assistant Steve Redmond between them accounting for nearly a thousand, the young Clarets (total league appearances: nil) applied themselves with great character, skill and determination that had Proud To Be a Claret evident in their every move.
Refusing to be intimidated by their more-experienced, foul-mouthed opponents, the youngsters withstood a first half onslaught, fought back magnificently in the second half to equalise, almost took the lead, and then fell at the final hurdle to a late winner from Burnley-born Gareth Seddon.
This was the third time in four reserve games that the Supremo, presumably acting on another decree from Stanley Augustus, had been obliged to field virtually the same team as had played in the youth game the previous Saturday. The reasons for and merits of this approach could perhaps be debated elsewhere; all that should be said at this point is that the young Clarets have responded magnificently. The three games have been lost, true, but the attitude of the players, some of whom have only a handful of youth team appearances to their credit, has been outstanding.
Led by Earl Davis, who yesterday was at his awesome best, and encouraged by some breathtaking saves from James Salisbury, each Claret produced a committed and passionate performance. Andrew Leeson, Gary Carter and Liam Eves defended like men possessed alongside the Colossus. Richard Chaplow and Andrew Waine were everywhere, helping out in defence, moving the ball forward at every opportunity, and harrying and closing down the opposition when not in possession. Mark Rasmussen and Matthew O’Neill caused all sorts of problems down the wings, and up front Rhys Carpenter, Damien Hindle and later Robert Grimes ran themselves daft, much to the annoyance of the defending Shakers, each of whom seemed to be at least six inches taller.
The second half in particular, in which virtually every pass was on the ground, saw some fine moves and thoughtful play as well as determined defending. The move that produced the goal was a delight, which even had the Bury fans applauding. The Clarets forced two corners in quick succession, and from the second Ras played a short pass in to Matty O’Neill. Knocker totally bamboozled the defence with his trickery, and floated a cross to the far post for Earl to head home firmly.
Soon afterwards, Knocker embarked upon a mazy run in which he seemed to take on the entire Bury side before hitting a fine effort from the edge of the area which shaved an upright. He continues to grow in confidence, and it’s great to see that at last he is receiving the first team attention that he deserves.
It was also good to see that director Clive Holt witnessed this display. He must have been impressed. Let’s hope he reports back soon to the rest of the board and encourages them to give as much support as possible to these lads who are a credit to the club.
What better opportunity could they want but a week on Saturday? The first team are at home to Franchise. Barry Kilby’s condemnation of the loathsome Koppel and his craven crew’s despicable behaviour has been well-documented. AFC Wimbledon fans will rightly be looking to our board for further support for their cause.
So, Barry, why not do the decent thing? Ignore Charley boy and take yourself, and the rest of the board, off to Gawthorpe for the youth game against Oldham. Have a chat with the lads’ relations, some of whom travel hundreds of miles to every game. You’ll still be able to get back to the Turf in time to snub Koppel before kick off.
In other words, support what is healthy in football, not what is rotten.
Burnley (in 4-4-2): James Salisbury; Andrew Leeson, Gary Carter, Earl Davis (capt.), Liam Eves; Mark Rasmussen, Richard Chaplow, Andrew Waine, Matthew O’Neill; Rhys Carpenter (Robert Grimes 46), Damien Hindle. Subs not used: Sean Blakey, Stephen Richardson, Ryan Townsend, Danny Pitham.
Attendance (unofficial): 104