A VERY young Burnley reserve side received praise from both sets of coaches after they lost 3-1 at Walsall yesterday afternoon.

Reserve boss Ronnie Jepson explained: "They had a very strong side out and even their manager made a point of saying how well the young lads had done and that is very pleasing.

"Our lads played really well and I was very happy. We got back into it with a penalty for 2-1 but then James Salisbury and Andrew Leeson let a ball go between them and it was 3-1.

"That was the only disappointing thing but when you go into a match like that it is not about the result, you are looking for a performance.

"I wanted them to show they have got a good perception of the job, they have got the right attitude and they can cope physically and mentally against far more experienced opponents. They did that for me."

Damien Hindle got the Burnley goal from the penalty spot and Jepson was delighted by his work rate in the lone striking role, being supported by Matty O'Neill and Mark Rasmussen from the flanks.

He added: "Richard Chaplow was exceptional, schoolboy Tom Ince made his debut and did well and there were a lot of pluses right through the team."

The reserves next match is next Wednesday against Preston North End.