The Clarets travel to Luton on Tuesday evening to play in the rearranged game that was postponed in game week two. When the sides met in the Championship last season, we witnessed two tight encounters that ended 1-1 and 1-0 to Burnley in this exact fixture.
Luton
After a disastrous start to life in the Premier League, the Hatters’ performances and results have improved over the last two weeks. Rob Edward’s side are currently placed in 17th on four points after six games. Other than the two opening defeats to Brighton and Chelsea, Luton have been rather solid defensively whilst showing some attacking threat. Furthermore, Luton’s top scorer last season, Carlton Morris, has found joy in front of goal, netting three times already and it is clear that his goals will be vital this season.
The number nine added to his tally last weekend, when the Hatters picked up their first ever Premier League victory, a 2-1 win versus Everton. Luton travelled to Goodison Park as the underdogs but by the 31st minute, they were 2-0 up thanks to Tom Lockyer and Morris. Both of the goals came from set pieces, which is the source of the majority of Luton’s attacking play. Everton did score before the break but the Hatters displayed defensive resilience to deny the opposition and hold onto the valuable three points.
Burnley
The Clarets have struggled since returning to the Premier League, but in fairness to Vincent Kompany’s side, they’ve arguably had the toughest set of games so far. After six matches, Burnley are in 19th place on one point, with only goal difference separating them from the bottom of the table. Their main problems have come in the defensive department, as they have conceded the joint second most goals this season (15). Burnley have only played on the road twice thus far and their first away trip against Nottingham Forest saw them pick up their only point in a 1-1 draw.
Their second away fixture took place on Saturday, when they faced Newcastle. The hosts took the lead In the 14th, however after the opener, the Clarets did look dangerous at times on the break. The rest of the tie saw the Magpies attempt to add to their advantage and they dominated for large spells. They finally doubled their lead thanks to an Alexander Isak penalty in the 76th minute. All though they lost their fifth game in six, It is difficult to judge Burnley this early, especially when fixture context is applied.
Verdict?
Both teams will be desperate to win the game and three points for either side will be a huge confidence boost. However, there is the possibility that both teams could become more conservative, as this is also a fixture they will not want to lose, even at this early stage. It will be tight and every outcome is possible.
The final prediction Luton 1-1 Burnley.
