AUDIO: Burnley FC boss Eddie Howe buoyed by performance against Hammers

BURNLEY boss Eddie Howe claimed he was pleased by individual performances despite watching his side surrender a two-goal lead against West Ham United.

After the 2-2 draw he said: "I'm very disappointed. I thought the lads were excellent in patches. They were very brave, passed the ball, and there was some lovely combinations. It took us 10-15 minutes to settle in to the game but once we did and got that first goal it gave us huge confidence. There were spells in second half as well, especially before they scored, we looked like getting third goal.

"They are a strong, physical side and we knew set plays were going to be really important. We dealt with them in the first half, had a couple of escapes, but the third goal in the game was a crucial one and unfortunately they got it. At 2-1 it was game on and in the end we were thankful to Granty for making some great saves. It would have been a tragedy if we'd have lost it.

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"But the lads gave everything after two long trips, the physical effort was very good. ads gave everything. There were lots of positives to take from the game, some great individual performances. The lads are growing and learning to play here as well."

Howe added: "We wanted a show of spirit and determination. We wanted to show everyone that Wednesday night was not the real us. We are keen to impress the supporters and do well for the club. Players still growing in to positions and hopefully fans can understand what we're doing.

"We're kicking ourselves because I believe we were capable of making the play-offs this year. We've competed well against top sides, we've dropped points where we shouldn't have done, mainly against sides lower down in the table, and lost leads. Hopefully we can keep the team together for next year and give it a good push."