CLARETS defender Lee Briscoe is confident Burnley will avoid an upset when they launch their Worthington Cup campaign tonight.

Third Division Hartlepool United go into the first-round tie as big underdogs and Briscoe believes Burnley can make the difference in status pay if they continue the form they have shown in the opening days of the season.

"They have got nothing to lose and can come here and have a real go. But I think if we control the ball I am confident that we will keep a clean sheet, score a couple of goals and we'll be okay," said Briscoe.

However, with Burnley having proved already this season that an established name counts for little, Briscoe is taking nothing for granted going into the first leg at Turf Moor.

"The biggest game is always the next one so we're not bothered what's gone on in the league now.

"It's important that we carry on and get a result tonight," he insisted.