CHILLY Burnley are fighting to save their New Year's Day clash with Oxford United from the icy grip of an Arctic blast.

The Clarets have wisely called in a local referee to make an 11.30am pitch inspection at frost-bound Turf Moor in the morning.

But today the chances of the game going ahead were rated 'doubtful' with the playing surface frozen to a depth of two inches.

The Clarets are clearly pinning their hopes on a thaw in the conditions between now and tomorrow.

But they recognise an early decision will have to made with the Oxford squad due to travel North on Sunday at lunch-time. The weekend forecast is for a respite in the sub-zero conditions' with snow and rain forecast.

But whether the milder conditions prevail in time for tomorrow's inspection is in the lap of the gods.

"If there is a big change in the conditions, which is forecast, we may have half a chance of playing the match," confirmed manager Jimmy Mullen.

"But looking at the surface this morning I have to say it is already quite doubtful.

"We will do everything in our power to get the game played. But we also have to consider Oxford's situation and that they need an early decision with the distance involved."

If the Oxford fixture falls victim to the frost, then that would complete a Christmas and New Year 'white out' for the Clarets after the festive games at Blackpool and Swindon Town all fell victim to the weather. It would leave Burnley with four outstanding games to arrange for later in the season.

Added Mullen: "Obviously I would rather have the games played but we have plenty of free mid-week dates."

Burnley's FA Youth Cup third round date at Norwich City will definitely go ahead at Carrow Road on Wednesday, January 10 (7.30pm).

Sheffield United management team Howard Kendall and former Claret Adrian Heath have snapped up former Blackburn Rovers and England midfielder Gordon Cowans and Notts County defender Chris Short.

The Football League have announced the dates for the Endsleigh League Second Division Play-Offs.

The Play-Off semi-finals start on Sunday, May 12 with the second leg taking place on Wednesday, May 15. Sixth v Third and Fifth v Fourth. The two winners contest the Play-Off final at Wembley on May 26.

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