Burnley are now in touching distance of the Premier League following a 2-1 victory against Watford at Vicarage Road. Scott Parker’s side started their Easter weekend with a crucial win in a game of two halves.
In a chaotic match, Burnley extended their unbeaten run to 30 games and are now just three points away from securing promotion.
An early Watford goal from Mamadou Doumbia came during an unusually nervy start for Burnley.
However, Zian Flemming capitalised on a Jaidon Anthony cross to restore parity. The move began with a fine piece of goalkeeping from player of the match James Trafford.
Into the second half, a goal from Josh Brownhill sparked chaos both on and off the pitch.
Watford captain Moussa Sissoko was shown a red card after receiving two bookings in two minutes, first for dissent following the goal. He was then booked for the second time in two minutes for an apparent push on Flemming before the restart.
The Hornets lost their discipline from that point onward, with a second player, Edo Kayembe, also sent off after collecting two yellow cards in four minutes.
Despite late pressure from the hosts, Burnley held on against nine men and returned to the top of the Championship table.
Burnley player ratings
James Trafford – 9 (Player of the Match)
A simply superb performance from the Englishman. A world-class save turned into the equalising chance for the Clarets.
Several good saves followed, Trafford’s skills were the reason Burnley stayed in the game on a number of occasions.
Connor Roberts – 7
A solid performance from the Welshman, performing both defensive and attacking duties well. Given permit to attack more following the second red, he made a number of good runs into the box.
CJ Egan-Riley – 8
A solid defensive performance from Egan-Riley. Made two goal-saving challenges, one in each half. A composed display from the young man.
Maxime Estève – 7
A much quieter game from Estève. A solid performance all over. Given more freedom to attack, although he was caught on the back foot a few times.
Lucas Pires – 6
Pires performed well in a physical test—something less common in Spanish and Brazilian football. He kept his composure in a game full of tackles and yellow cards.
Josh Cullen – 6
Not as impressive a performance as last week. A slightly uncontrolled outing from Cullen, who looked to struggle against the physical nature of the Hornets. His partnership with Brownhill continued to hold him back.
Josh Brownhill – 5
Like last week, the deeper nature of Brownhill’s role since Hannibal Mejbri's arrival is causing problems. A poor first half was cancelled out when he was pushed further forward in the second. A good goal, but overall a mediocre performance.
Hannibal Mejbri – 6
Completing the midfield trio is Hannibal. Not as exciting as last week centrally. Following Marcus Edwards’ withdrawal he played on the right wing and created a number of good chances. In a chaotic game, Hannibal remained calm and stayed out of trouble.
A special mention for dropping into the stands to check on a Watford fan after a misplaced pass.
Marcus Edwards – 5
An unusually poor game for Edwards. A slow day at the office, with no chances created. Replaced by Josh Laurent early in the second half.
Jaidon Anthony – 8
Another solid performance from Anthony, creating several good chances and capping it off with another assist.
Zian Flemming – 7
A much-improved performance from Flemming. His goal was well taken, and he created a number of good opportunities.
Next Up
Burnley face a crucial game against Sheffield United at Turf Moor on Monday evening. A win could see the Clarets—and potentially Leeds United, pending results—seal their return to the Premier League.
Watford head to Portsmouth for an Easter Monday trip to Fratton Park.
