Burnley Youth 7 Macclesfield Town Youth 1: Cayne Hanley hit the hat-trick trail as Burnley youth team went goal crazy ahead of a week of crucial cup clashes.

The teenage striker bagged three goals to help trounce 10-man Town and keep the Clarets hot on the heels of leaders Oldham Athletic.

But just as importantly it provided a timely boost as Terry Pashley's side gear up for today's Youth Alliance Cup game at Chester and then the big Youth Cup fifth round tie against Liverpool at Turf Moor next Monday.

Jay Rodriguez got Burnley off to a flying start with a first half brace before Macclesfield had a defender red-carded just before half time for a foul on Hanley.

And the prolific striker made Macclesfield pay after the break, opening his account before the visitors grabbed a consolation.

However, skipper Nicky Platt soon added to the Clarets total, Hanley completed his treble and Dale Underwood completed the rout to leave coach Pashley delighted.

He said: "We played well, moved the ball well, passed it nicely and scored some good goals.

"Cayne was in the right place at the right time and hopefully, this win will give the lads some confidence ahead of next week."

Burnley: Matthews (trialist), Henry, Casey, Kay, Blackler, Reilly, Underwood, Platt, Hanley, Rodriguez, Akbar.