CUP fighters Burnley hit the rocky road to Crewe Alexandra in the second round of the Auto Windscreens Shield.

The Clarets clinched their place in the knockout stages with a 1-1 draw against Chester City on Tuesday.

And today Jimmy Mullen's lads were handed a tricky trip to Gresty Road when the draw was made on Chris Evans' Radio One breakfast show this morning. The tie will go ahead on Tuesday, November 28.

Mullen's injury worries continued to pile up today after young midfielder Derek Adams was carried off following a clash with striker Gerry Creaney in last night's Pontins League fixture against Manchester City at Turf Moor.

Adams was rushed to hospital to have several stitches in a deep gash on his leg.

And Mullen said: "It is the worst flesh wound I have ever seen in my football career."

And with defender Chris Vinnicombe nursing an ankle injury and Adrian Randall struggling for fitness with a hamstring strain, the Turf Moor treatment room was a busy place today. The injuries to Randall and now Adams narrow Mullen's options in midfield for tomorrow night's FA Cup tie against Walsall. Paul McDonald is already cup-tied and Gerry Harrison is doubtful with an injured back. "It is a very concerning situation because I am fast running out of faces," added Mullen. On today's draw Mullen added: "It is a real tough one for us, there is no doubt about that.

"Crewe have made a great start to the season and any side that Dario Gradi puts out will be sure to give you a run for your money at Gresty Road."

Meanwhile, the Turf Moor chief has blocked attempts by Mansfield Town and Carlisle United to play strikers Tony Philliskirk and Nathan Peel in Saturday's FA Cup first round ties.

Carlisle wanted Philliskirk in their squad against Preston North End at Brunton Park and Stags boss Andy King was keen on including Peel against Doncaster Rovers at Field Mill.

"I don't want either of them cup-tied so I've blocked them from playing," added Mullen.

"I've got to give myself cover in case any of my strikers are injured."

Phililiskirk and Peel went out on a month's loan a week ago.

BURNLEY Supporters Club are running a coach to Monday's FA Youth Cup first round tie against Southport at Haig Avenue. The winners play Stoke City at home.The coach departs Colne at 4.15, Nelson 4.30, Burnley 4.45, Rawtenstall 5.00. Members £5.00, Non-members £6.00, Conc £4.00. Details on 01706 216457 or 01282 35176.

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