BURNLEY coach Getty Schinkel wishes the season was beginning after seeing his side end with a flourish.

Having won at St Benedict’s last weekend, Burnley pushed second-placed Kirkby all the way before slipping to defeat. “We certainly finished the season with a bang,” said the South African player/coach. “It’s just a shame the season was starting now because everything has clicked in to place.”

Burnley matched their in-form rivals score for score in the thriller at Holden Road.

After conceding an early try, Kurt Beeston crashed over with Phil Hesketh adding the extras.

Richard Griffiths also touched down and a Hesketh penalty put them 15-12 at the break.

Kirkby took a 20-15 lead but winger Mark Hanson drew Burnley level again before two late tries seal the win for the visitors.