DEAN Marney declared beating Norwich a “massive win” in Burnley’s quest for a top six finish.

The Clarets climbed back into the top 10 – five points adrift of the play-offs – thanks to Jay Rodriguez’s winner on the eve of the striker joining up with the England Under 21 squad.

Marney, who scored the opening goal, said it was the response manager Eddie Howe had demanded in the aftermath of his first defeat as Burnley boss, at Doncaster Rovers last Tuesday.

And the midfielder urged for repeat performances in key upcoming games against Watford and Cardiff as the Clarets aim to make their mark on the promotion pack.

“It’s important that we try to put a run together because the Portsmouth win was a great win and obviously in the next league game against Doncaster we let ourselves down, so it’s important we try to put a little run together and put ourselves where we should be,” said Marney.

“This was a massive win, especially after the disappointment of Tuesday.

“At the minute we just can’t seem to put a run together, which is costing us really.

“If we can get two or three wins back-to-back it looks completely different to where we are at the minute.

“The squad that we’ve got is as good as anyone’s but it’s all right having the players, it’s all about results.

“When it comes to the sort of games like Doncaster away, they’re the ones that we need to win and to lose was massively disappointing.

“The gaffer said on Friday that he wanted a reaction and I think everyone could see the effort the lads were putting in against a good side.

“It’s a big win, and it’s important that we build on it.”

Marney has certainly played his part in the two league wins in four attempts under Howe, following up his overhead kick at Portsmouth with his third of the season to break the deadlock on Saturday.

“As a midfielder you’re expected to chip in with goals.

"With my record over the previous years, it’s never been one of my strong points, but it’s something that obviously helps myself and helps the teams so it’s important,” said the 27-year-old.

“My track record of shooting hasn’t been great but I try not to let it get to me.

"I know what I’m capable of once I get the chances. I’ve snatched at a few lately but thankfully a couple have gone in.

“We can’t rely on the strikers week in week out, even though their quality is there for all to see.

“Everyone else needs to chip in and that will help the team.

“I’ve got two since the new gaffer’s come in so hopefully I can keep that up.”