BUOYANT Burnley manager Eddie Howe said their 2-0 win at Middlesbrough was down to his side's “best before of the season”.

The Clarets overcame Tony Mowbray's high flyers thanks to first half goals from Jay Rodriguez and Kieran Trippier.

Rodriguez grabbed his 14th of the season from a Ross Wallace corner in the sixth minute, and Trippier's 35-yard effort increased their cushion just before the half-hour, before Burnley went on to record their fourth clean sheet in five games.

“We are developing a winning mentality and I'm very happy with what was our best performance of the season,” said Howe, who marks a year in charge at Turf Moor on Monday.

“Our defence was solid against a very good Middlesbrough side.

“Confidence is high.”

Victory came at a price however, as Junior Stanislas and Martin Paterson both limped off with hamstring strains in the second half and could face up to six weeks each on the sidelines.

Howe said that may force his hand in what remains of the transfer window.

Sam Vokes' loan spell is set to expire tomorrow, but the Clarets may now look to extend that agreement.