Burnley vs Birmingham

STUART BRENNAN AT TURF MOOR: Anass Zaroury made a stunning return from the World Cup to set Burnley on their way to another crucial win in their promotion ...

The Clarets went close again as the marauding Zaroury cut in from the left and curved a cross towards the penalty spot. The Clarets then took full control of the match, containing the Midlanders’ attempts to gain a foothold and constantly threatening to open them up down the flanks with Benson and Zaroury in a dangerous mood. Burnley 3-0 Birmingham: Anass Zaroury opens scoring in the first minute on return from the World Cup, with Connor Roberts and Nathan Tella also getting on the scoresheet as Clarets stretch lead at the top of the Championship

A scintillating first half display from Championship leaders Burnley overwhelmed Birmingham City on a difficult night at Turf Moor.

Tried to create something in the second half but it just wasn't there. Typically strong in the air - and back on long throw duty towards the end - but his distribution was a mixed bag. Had more help in the second half and seemed ever willing to get forward. Looked half a yard off the pace but not unreasonably felt he was fouled for the opening goal. It was all a bit head-spinning for the 18-year-old as Burnley flooded his side. A tough evening for the Man Utd loanee. At least tried to give his side an outlet in the first 45. Although Burnley dominated the first half with possession and territory they only had three shots on Ruddy's goal, two of them went in but the goalkeeper couldn't do much about either. Got caught overdoing it once in the second half which left the door open. The home side dominated possession throughout, carved Blues open in the first half and looked every inch promotion favourites en route to a 3-0 victory. Burnley weren't as rampant in the second period but they did still create openings. [Krystian Bielik](https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/all-about/krystian-bielik) was mugged by Burnley’s press in their own half allowing the hosts to break clear, overloading down their right and creating space for Connor Roberts to pick out Anaass Zaroury who calmly beat [John Ruddy](https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/all-about/john-ruddy) first time from ten yards.