Burnley lost their grip on the top of the Championship table after an uninspired goalless draw at Derby County, as John Eustace’s side continued their gritty escape from the relegation scrap.
In a game desperately short on quality but full of heart, the Clarets faded after a bright start and now find themselves second on goal difference behind Leeds United, who leapfrogged them with a win at Middlesbrough. The Rams, meanwhile, took another vital step away from the drop zone and have now picked up 16 points from a possible 18.
One-Way Start, Even Contest
Burnley dominated the early stages, with Zian Flemming looking the most likely to make something happen. The Dutchman saw one thunderous shot brilliantly saved by Zetterstrom, another fly wide, and a third curled just past the far post.
But once Derby settled, they grew into the game. Jerry Yates nearly gave them a shock lead, only for James Trafford to get down quickly and make a crucial stop. By the second half, the home side looked the more energetic, with Clarke’s stoppage-time header drifting agonisingly over the bar.
“The lads are very well drilled… Every player on the pitch did their jobs. We showed we are together against a very good team.” – John Eustace
Burnley’s evening worsened when substitute Lyle Foster was forced off just six minutes after coming on with a suspected shoulder injury. Already struggling for rhythm, the Clarets never looked like breaking through again after that blow.
The visitors may point to Flemming’s missed chances, but this was far from a vintage display. As Sheffield United also slipped up, it was an opportunity missed to tighten their grip on automatic promotion. Instead, they’ve opened the door for rivals and will need to improve quickly with five games left.
Derby’s disciplined structure was again evident under Eustace. While they lacked a consistent threat in front of goal, they were composed without the ball and nearly stole it at the death. Their upturn in form has transformed what looked like a grim outlook just a month ago.
Site Opinion
Burnley are still unbeaten in 28 league games — but this one felt like a step backward. Without urgency, and with injuries beginning to bite, they looked short on ideas. Zian Flemming can’t carry the creative burden alone. As for Derby, this was another small victory. Eustace has his side organised, confident, and punching above their weight. Survival is no longer just a hope — it’s looking likely. Burnley, however, need to regroup fast if promotion is to stay on track.
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