MARK Robertson could be a good bet for an Olympic medal next season, if he can keep his place in the Olyroos squad for Sydney 2000.

The Australian under-23 side is currently stepping up its preparation for the Games with a training camp in this country.

They beat Southampton 4-1 at The Dell on Thursday and were highly impressive in doing so.

The Saints included seven players with first-team experience, including the likes of John Beresford, James Beattie, Chris Marsden and Richard Dryden, but were no match for the Aussies in the second half.

Robertson came on as a late substitute as the Olyroos wrapped up a win which included goals from Millwall's Lucas Neill and Manchester City's Danny Allsopp.

FORMER Burnley full-back Gary Parkinson won't be fit for next Saturday's derby clash at Preston.

The North End full-back is recovering from a serious knee injury.

And he was being put through his paces by physio Mick Rathbone at Chorley FC on Thursday, while Preston's under-19 sides were playing Burnley in the Football League's Youth Alliance.

WIGAN manager and former Clarets boss John Benson is the Second Division's manager-of-the-month after guiding his side to the top of the table with three wins and two draws in their first two games. Benson is now being assisted by ex-Burnley manager John Bond who is doing coaching and scouting work at Wigan after leaving UniBond League club Witton Albion.

THE Clarets warm-up for next Saturday's Nationwide League derby at Deepdale with a Pontins League Premier Division clash with Preston North End at Turf Moor next Wednesday (kick-off 7.15pm).

TICKETS for Burnley's game at Bristol City on Saturday, September 25, will be available to season-ticket holders from Monday, September 13 with voucher B required.

Remaining tickets will go on general sale the following Monday, priced £13 adults, £10 senior citizens, £8 under-16s and wheelchair supporters free with helpers £13.

BURNLEY have been allocated 4,000 seats in the Bill Shankly kop for next Saturday's derby clash at Preston.

The game is all-ticket for Clarets fans and tickets are already on sale at Turf Moor, priced £14 and £9 concessions.

COLNE Clarets are taking bookings for the games at Preston next Saturday and Bristol City on September 25.

Overnight stay at Bristol costs £50 for bed, breakfast, evening meal and a half-bottle of wine at the Stourport Manor Hotel.

Contact Alan Beecroft on 01282 864147.

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