A first-half goal from Jaidon Anthony was enough to help Burnley boost their bid for a return to the Premier League with a hard-earned win at Bristol City.
The opening goal came midway through the first-half as Jaidon Anthony reacted first to a loose ball after Josh Brownhill’s effort had been parried by Robins keeper Max O’Leary. The on-loan Bournemouth winger wasted little time in finishing from close range before taking the acclaim of his team-mates.
Brownhill was the heart of another promising moment in the opening stages of the second-half as his neat touch and cross led to chances neither Luca Koleosho or Hannibal could take. In a period of intense pressure, Anthony almost doubled his tally as curled an effort narrowly over O’Leary’s crossbar as the hosts number one looked completely helpless.
The hosts ramped up the pressure inside the final 20 minutes and James Trafford made a smart save to deny Robins substitute Yu Hirakawa before the Clarets survived a credible penalty shout when Brownhill appeared to hand in the area. Despite some nervy moments, Scott Parker’s men held on to keep yet another clean sheet and secure what could be a precious three points on the road.
Here are the Express’ player ratings for the Clarets stars after a hard-fought Championship contest at Ashton Gate.
9. Luca Koleosho - 8
Always felt a threat and, along with fellow winger Anthony, gave the Robins full-backs a torrid day at Ashton Gate. | Kelvin Lister-Stuttard
10. Josh Cullen - 6
Solid but not spectacular. Did the job asked of him by his manager. Photo: Kelvin Lister-Stuttard
11. Jeremy Sarmiento (on for Hannibal) - 6
Tried to make things happen for Burnley as their hosts poured on the pressure. | Kelvin Lister-Stuttard
12. Bashir Humphreys (on for Pires) - 6
Brought on to shore things up. | Kelvin Lister-Stuttard