THIS year's A-level mathematics paper should include a question concerning the current chaos at the top of the first division.

The situation is so tight that the Clarets could finish anywhere between fourth and eighth as they go into the 46th and final game of the season.

At this stage last season it was all over, defeat at Bramall Lane in the penultimate game costing them any chance of a top six spot.

That meant last season's final game against Watford was nothing more than an end of season friendly. Sunday's clash against Coventry could not be more different.

Normally come the end of season the equation is simple and for the two teams above Ternent's men it is.

If Millwall avoid defeat by Grimsby they will be in the play-offs and if Steve Bruce's Birmingham City beat his former club Sheffield United their top six place is guaranteed.

But for Burnley the possibilities are virtually endless. Such is their tenuous position that a home win against Coventry may not be enough to give them a top six spot.

If Norwich can beat bottom side Stockport County by one more goal than the Clarets beat the Sky Blues, they will go ahead of Burnley on goal difference.

If both teams are held to a draw the Clarets are safe but if they should both suffer last day fright and be beaten then even Preston North End can pass them.

North End are currently three points behind the Clarets and can pass them with a home win against Nottingham Forest.

So, to put it simply, Burnley could face a play-off against Wolves or West Brom with the first leg at Turf Moor.

On the other hand they could take on Millwall, Birmingham or Norwich, with the second leg either at home or away.

Then there is the nightmare scenario that they could drop out of the top six for only the third time all season and be packing up to go away on holiday, regretting missed chances and agonising over what could have been.

No wonder reading the table is giving the Burnley fans a headache.

THE situation for Burnley's reserves is a little simpler as they know that if they win their last two games they will be Avon Insurance Premier Division champions.

Tonight Barnsley visit Turf Moor (kick-off 7.15) and should Ronnie Jepson's side win Wednesday night's game against Preston North End reserves at Deepdale will be a title decider.

But with all eyes firmly focused on Sunday's clash with Coventry, Stan Ternent will be careful in deciding who will be available for selection and so Jepson may again turn to the youngsters who have done well for him for much of the season.

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