A fan's-eye view from Turf Moor, with Stephen Cummings

RICHARD Littlejohn, the Radio 5 Live phone-in host, was pondering the Bank Holiday results. "I can't help wondering," he mused, "whether Ian Wright is going to end his career with a Wembley play-off final."

I hope not, Richard, because I am not entirely sure my nerves could stand it.

One thing is certain -- if the Clarets are going to achieve promotion either automatically or via the play-offs, it will not be done without a lot nails being bitten. Doing things in a straightforward manner is not and never has been the Burnley way.

Not that that should necessarily be read as a criticism of the Clarets. To be third on goal difference with two games remaining is a fine achievement -- particularly following on from the nightmare that was the majority of last season.

It's just that the last two games have seen stress levels shoot through the ceiling. Saturday's astonishing events may not have been repeated at Brentford on Monday. But once the home side grabbed a second goal in the closing minutes, the colour visibly drained from the face of many a Claret. Still, that is to miss the crucial point. Which is that despite conceding a three and a two in consecutive fixtures, Burnley have still shown sufficient character to emerge with two vital wins and six precious points.

And whilst it may not be "just like watching Brazil" as two and a half thousand Clarets sung at one point on Monday afternoon, who cares? Because at this stage of the season a win is a win.

One of the most pleasing aspects of Monday's victory was the long overdue recognition by the supporters of Paul Crichton as an integral part of the team. Throughout this campaign, Burnley's number one has had to be content with the role of unsung hero. Which is somewhat perplexing. Because if you go through the divisions from Manchester United to Shrewsbury Town, there cannot be many other keepers who have notched up 20 clean sheets this season.

The keeper is by some considerable distance the most improved player at Turf Moor this season. And his acrobatics against Millwall and Brentford were vital in ensuring the points came Burnley's way.

Meanwhile, Clarets fans face a nervous fortnight. Automatic or play-offs? Well, if Littlejohn can have his dream about a Wright Wembley final, then I can keep my fingers crossed for second place. Come on you Clarets!