Stephen Cummings column

YOU could nit pick and argue that at times it was scrappy.

You could grumble and point out, that for all their dominance, the Clarets managed but two meaningful efforts on target.

But what is beyond argument is that for the first time in a long time, Burnley won a game of football at Turf Moor.

If it seems an age since the Clarets went two-up in the first three minutes to see off a woeful Norwich side, that's because it is.

That victory took place on October 23. Since then, Southampton, Hull, Stoke, Leicester, QPR, Preston, Sheffield Wednesday and Bristol City have come between Burnley and three home points.

In fairness to Owen Coyle, it's not for the want of opening sides up and creating chances that the home victory proved so elusive.

Leicester, Sheffield Wednesday and Bristol City in particular should all have been at least slightly embarrassed when walking away with what were really undeserved points.

It was then, ironic, that victory should come when Burnley only played their football in fits and starts.

They were neat and tidy enough in the first half, but only the brilliant Wade Elliott posed any kind of threat.

It was the introduction of the half-fit Robbie Blake that made the difference.

Prior to that, the injury and suspension ravaged Clarets were one dimensional and predictable. The plan was "give it to Wade."

But then Wade gave it to Robbie, and Robbie gave it to Plymouth with a sublime finish.

The win kept alive Burnley's play-off dreams. But events of the next 17 days will define the course of the 2007/08 campaign.

Make the right additions and the Clarets can still entertain aspirations of a top six finish.

Fail to strengthen and Burnley will almost certainly fade away and finish in 15th.