U21s MATCH REPORT: BURNLEY 2-1 BIRMINGHAM CITY

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Clarets battled to the end for a victory

2024-02-02T15:10:00.000Z

U21s MATCH REPORT: BURNLEY 2-1 BIRMINGHAM CITY

Clarets battled to the end for a victory

2024-02-02T15:10:00.000Z

Clarets battled to the end for a victory

A youthful Burnley U21s squad secured a valuable three points against Birmingham City on Friday afternoon at the Lancashire FA County Ground, clinching a 2-1 victory.

The game saw debuts for new signings Mikey O’Neill, Michael Parker, Joe Bevan, Ackeme Francis-Burrell and Tommy McDermott. Stepping up, five players from the Clarets U18s squad were also involved.

The home side started the match on the front foot, with Vernon Masara showcasing his speed to navigate through the opposition’s defence. Masara unleashed a low strike towards the goal, but Tyrese Warmington made a crucial block.

The Blues quickly countered with Rico Patterson, who made a lethal run down the wing. Patterson attempted a high-effort shot, but unfortunately, the ball lifted just over the crossbar.

The home side broke the deadlock 26 minutes in when Logan Pye capitalised on an accurate high cross from Ackeme Francis-Burrell - with a perfect header, he found the back of the net.

U21s MATCH REPORT: BURNLEY 2-1 BIRMINGHAM CITY - Image 1

Birmingham City took control early in the second half, with Romelle Donovan skillfully dribbling past Bradley Grant. Donovan unleashed a powerful shot towards goal, but Casper managed to palm the ball away.

The Blues maintained their momentum, with Josh Home securing the equaliser through a well-timed volley into the top corner from just inside the box.

Burnley responded with determination, as Rohan Vaughan became a significant threat to Marcel Oakley with his dangerous runs into the area. However, Warmington showcased strong defensive skills, effectively marking his presence and reclaiming the ball.

The decisive moment came when new recruit O'Neill sealed the victory. Tommy McDermott delivered a precise corner into the area, where O'Neill found open space and slotted the ball between the Blues' keeper and the far post, closing the scoring.

U21s MATCH REPORT: BURNLEY 2-1 BIRMINGHAM CITY - Image 2

The Claret U21s are back in action on Monday night against Fulham FC in the Premier League Cup at the Lancashire FA County Ground. More details will follow nearer the date.

Burnley: Casper, Healy-Byrne, Grant, Pye (Ashton 65'), Campbell. Hugill, Masara, Francis-Burrell (McDermott 57'), Bevan (Rogers 75'), O'Neill, Parker (Vaughan 45')

Unused subs: Moss

Birmingham City: Warmington, Oakley, Willis, Fairnie, Olofinjana, Home, Mazwi, Patterson, Donovan, Williams, Dixon

Subs: Sayer, Pendleton, Ellis, Hamilton, Tattum

Goals: Pye 26' (1-0), Home 56' (1-1), O'Neill 82' (2-1)