TWO football fanatics know it is a dog's life following their favourite East Lancashire side and are hoping tomorrow's clash will not be too ruff!

Bella and Maddy are two St Bernard hounds who have faithfully took their owners' soccer sides to their hearts.

Bella and owner Stephen Bibby follow the Rovers while best pal Andy Swale has brought his dog up on the Claret colours of his team Burnley.

Stephen and Andy, who have been friends since they were at school, will both be at the big match tomorrow when Rovers take on Burnley at Ewood Park.

And although Stephen and Andy -- and Bella and Maddy -- are the best of friends, the football comes first.

Stephen said: "There is a bit of rivalry between us but it's only friendly banter. We have given each other a bit of stick about the game."

The rivalry doesn't stop when the final whistle has blown either. Stephen, of Blackburn, said the two dogs are preparing to go head-to-head.

"We are hoping to enter them both into dog shows later this year," said Stephen, who like Andy is a member of the St Bernards' Club. "They have already taken part in some shows and Bella has come third in the puppy and the junior category and I think Maddy has had a fourth."

The last meetings between the teams in December resulted in a 2-0 win for Rovers.

Stephen and Bella are confident of a similar result which could lead them into the top flight.

Stephen said: "Andy thinks Burnley will win but I think Rovers will do it. Saying that it's a derby game so who knows."