Scott Twine's winner for Burnley sent them 19 points clear of third-placed Watford
Championship leaders Burnley showcased their resilience as they came from behind to secure a thrilling victory against West Bromwich Albion at Turf Moor. Vincent Kompany's Clarets, currently at the helm of the league standings, solidified their position with an impressive display.
A Remarkable Turnaround
Nathan Tella, Burnley's top scorer, showcased his prowess by netting his ninth goal of the season, leveling the game after an early setback. The injury-plagued summer signing, Scott Twine, proved his mettle by coming off the bench to deliver the winning strike in the 87th minute. This victory marked only the third defeat for Carlos Corberan's Baggies in 12 games.
Burnley's current winning streak of eight league matches has propelled them 19 points ahead of third-placed Watford and five points clear of second-placed Sheffield United, who also secured a victory against Hull City. With just two losses in 28 league games this season, Burnley's promotion to the Premier League seems increasingly likely.
John Swift's Early Breakthrough
West Bromwich Albion took an early lead through John Swift's cross from the right, completed with a controversial header from Furlong. However, Burnley had several opportunities to level the game before halftime, with Ashley Barnes coming close to finding the back of the net.
Although Burnley's strong penalty appeals went unanswered, they intensified their pursuit of an equalizer after the break. With Jay Rodriguez, a former Albion striker, providing an additional physical and aerial threat off the bench, it was only a matter of time before Burnley found success.
Tella's Equalizer and Twine's Winning Moment
It wasn't until the 75th minute that Burnley managed to level the score. Anass Zaroury's exquisite long ball down the inside right channel allowed Tella to break free and unleash a powerful angled shot, which found the back of the net. Burnley's determination paid off when Josh Cullen was fouled by Jed Wallace at the edge of the box, leading to a free-kick opportunity.
Scott Twine, who had only been on the field for four minutes, confidently stepped up and calmly curled the ball over the wall into the top right corner of the net, leaving Albion's goalkeeper Alex Palmer helpless. Twine's £4m transfer from Milton Keynes Dons proved to be a worthwhile investment, adding to Burnley's ever-growing success.
What's Next?
Both teams are now set to face FA Cup fourth-round ties in the upcoming weekend. Burnley will travel to face League One side Ipswich, while Albion will take on Bristol City. After that, they will resume league action with Albion hosting Midlands rivals Coventry City, and Burnley visiting Norwich.
Unfortunately, Albion will have to navigate the coming weeks without winger Matt Phillips, who suffered a quadriceps muscle injury during their midweek Cup replay win over Chesterfield. This setback could keep Phillips out of action for up to 12 weeks.
In reflection on Burnley's achievement, manager Vincent Kompany shared, "This feels very special. This feels different. It's about character almost as much as quality. And they've earned it. There is a group dynamic and an energy that they bring every single day."
West Bromwich Albion head coach Carlos Corberan admitted, "We should have done more to attack them in the second half. But they had a lot of the ball, which made it difficult for us to press. The first goal changed everything. At that moment, we still had possibilities to take something."
Burnley's triumph over West Bromwich Albion signifies their unwavering determination and strengthens their claim as the frontrunners in the Championship. As the race for promotion heats up, all eyes will be on Burnley to see if they can maintain their impressive form and secure a spot in the prestigious Premier League.
