STAN Ternent has revealed the secret behind one of the biggest mysteries at Turf Moor - the Clarets free-kick routine.

The bouncing ball ritual, currently featuring Micky Mellon and Paul Cook, has bemused fans all season.

But Ternent explained the mystery at Accrington Clarets' meet-the-manager night this week.

The bouncing of the ball is a signal to Burnley's players preparing to attack the box to help them time their run to arrive at the same time as Cook's delivery. So now you know.

RONNIE Jepson can't wait for next season to start - in the Second Division.

The veteran striker believes the omens are good for a major challenge provided Burnley have confirmed their status this time around.

"We are just coming into the run well," said Jepson.

The lads are getting confident and we have got a few good lads in the dressing rooms. The atmosphere is good and that's what it's all about.

"The majority of lads can't wait until next season starts. It's just a matter of getting us safe because everybody is looking forward so much to next year it's untrue. "But first of all we've got to make sure we are here."

BURNLEY are in the play-offs - on current form that is!

Results over the last six games show that the Clarets are ranked fourth in the Second Division behind Manchester City, Fulham and Wycombe Wanderers.

In the 'relegation places' are Reading, Lincoln, Bristol Rovers and Preston.

ANDY PAYTON has scored more Second Division goals than anyone else this season.

Payton's 19 goals put him three behind top marksman Geoff Horsfield.

But seven of Horsfield's goals came before he moved from Halifax to Fulham.

Four players ganging up behind Payton and just one goal adrift are Carl Asaba, Kurt Nogan, Jamie Cureton and Andy Rammell.

THE CLARETS Independent Supporters Association are holding an informal open meeting before Burnley's home game against Fulham next Saturday.

The meeting is at the Sparrow Hawk Hotel, start 12.30 for 1pm. CISA are also seeking nominations for the positions of chairman, vice-chairman, secretary, treasurer, membership secretary, press officer and committee members.

All nominations should be with the secretary on May 8. Details of the AGM, which is expected to be in late May, will be announced shortly.

CLARETS reserves have a Pontin's League derby against Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium on Tuesday night (kick-off 7.00).

A win for Burnley would put them level on points with Bolton with a game in hand.

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