MICHAEL Kightly's first goal for Burnley at Turf Moor was enough to fire the Clarets back to the top of the Championship.

A goalless draw for QPR at home to Blackburn Rovers and a 3-1 defeat for previous leaders Leicester City at Brighton meant Sean Dyche's side returned to the summit on goal difference, with 39 points.

Burnley were not up to scratch in a goalless first half against bottom club Barnsley, who have ex-Claret Micky Mellon in caretaker charge.

But there was more of a spark about the Clarets after the break, and Kightly broke the deadlock in e 65th minute.

Kieran Trippier did the groundwork with a run down the right before releasing the winger, who cut inside and fired left footed into the top corner.

Danny Ings, returning after injury went close to a second, while Sam Vokes had the ball in the net but it was ruled out for offside.