Steve Stone gave youth its chance and was rewarded with a goal-scoring performance from debutant Ben Woods.
The midfielder scored the Clarets’ final goal in a 3-0 win over Colchester United which lifted Burnley level on points with second-placed Birmingham City in the U23 Professional Development League’s northern group.
Woods impressed in his first taste of football at this level as he and striker Lewis Richardson – both aged 16 – gave a further taste of things to come when they start two-year scholarships at Turf Moor next season.
Ben Woods celebrates his goal with two-goal scorer Rob Harker
“He played really well,” said Stone.