A fan's-eye view from Turf Moor, with Stephen Cummings

NOW we're cooking. Saturday's win rounded off a good week for the Clarets.

A share of the spoils at Millwall, an almost clinically efficient disposal of struggling Cambridge United followed by victory over Bristol City, should have restored faith amongst those who were beginning to doubt Burnley's promotion credentials.

Ternent has always held the view that it is how the team responds to setbacks that is the real test of character. Following the recent disappointments against Brentford and Scunthorpe Utd, a seven point haul from three games represents an excellent response. This has been thanks in no small part to the change of formation to 4-4-2. Importantly, the players seem comfortable with this system, as evidenced by the success achieved since its inception.

Perhaps its greatest advantage is that it allows for a certain amount of flair, whilst taking nothing away from the solid, defensive attributes upon which this season is being built. This makes it possible to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Another point which has emerged since the introduction of a flat back four, is just how strong the team's spine looks. From front to back Burnley have consistent performers.

Up front, Andy Payton and Andy Cooke could well represent the most lethal attacking pairing in the division. With four goals in six starts, Cooke is now scoring at a Paytonesque pace. In midfield, Paul Cook is proving to be nothing less than inspirational. Not only is he beginning to eclipse Glen Little as the main creative force in the middle, he is also delivering quality set pieces which are resulting in vital goals.

As for the back line, well, what can you say about Mitchell Thomas? The man is quite simply the best central defender to have pulled on the Claret and Blue in recent history. That his preferred position is left back only enhances the big man's reputation. He and Steve Davis are an excellent barrier. And so to the unsung hero, Paul Crichton. Burnley's undisputed number one has come on leaps and bounds, particularly when it comes to collecting or punching high balls.

His shot stopping is of an equally high standard and he has kept us in a number of games already this season. Throughout Division Two, no keeper has conceded fewer goals than Crichton.

Finally, congratulations to Bobby Seith on receiving his First Division championship medal on Saturday. The reward was long overdue and well deserved. From Clarets fans everywhere, congratulations, Bobby.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.