BOBBY ROBSON, the Newcastle manager, once claimed that he could usually tell how the season would unfold on the evidence of the first three games.

Now, if England's most successful manager of the last quarter century is right, Burnley supporters look fair set for a campaign to remember.

And that's on just the evidence of two games.

Of course, what Robson said must be taken with a pinch of salt. (Then again if fans can't dream in August, then when can they?)

The early signs offer encouragement. Saturday's victory over Wimbledon for example, is certainly worth shouting about. The Dons have been tipped by any number of people, including Stan Ternent, to be at the business end of the table come May.

It wasn't hard to see why. The visitors were strong, organised and passed and moved as well as anyone who visited Turf Moor last season. In fact if they can just find a goalkeeper they will be laughing. (Although probably not as hard as some Clarets fans were as the unfortunate Kelvin Davis underwent his personal nightmare). And yet, apart from a spell spent defending too deep which allowed Wimbledon a second goal, the Clarets were convincing winners against a very good side.

Playing a vital role in the victory was Alan Moore. Let us hope the Burnley board are drawing up a contract as we speak, because if the wide man carries his form over into the next few games, Burnley will not be the only club seeking the Irish international's services.

Aside from his excellent technique and eye for a pass, Moore playing on the left, lends the side greater balance. It also offers the Clarets another attacking option to complement Glen Little on the right.

Also worthy of mention was the performance of Gordon Armstrong. The 34-year-old is fast acquiring the tag of Mr Dependable. I lost count of the number of occasions on which Armstrong was in the right place at the right time against Wimbledon.

And if the manager stands by his philosophy that if you play well you keep the shirt, then a fit again Mitchell Thomas may well struggle to get a game.

In the meantime, one thing that everyone associated with the club will enjoy is a good cup run.

It's years since Burnley had one. And if the likes of Bolton and Tranmere can achieve a degree of success in knockout competitions, then there is no reason why we can't.

Let's make a start tonight against Rushden and Diamonds.