MICHAEL Duff hailed the 'excellent' senior players that helped his Burnley Under-23s to a 4-1 win over Cardiff City.

The Clarets got their Professional Development League campaign up and running with an impressive win against the Bluebirds in a behind-closed-doors fixture at Turf Moor.

Matej Vydra was on the scoresheet as the £11million man made an immediate impact, doubling Burnley's lead in the 14th minute when he coolly slotted past goalkeeper Matt Hall.

Dan Agyei had opened the scoring, tapping in on the line after £15million centre back Ben Gibson flicked on Dwight McNeil's corner.

Gibson was partnered by Kevin Long at the heart of defence, with Tom Heaton in goal.

The Clarets' defences were breached three minutes after the break when Brayden Shaw found the bottom corner.

But Tunde Bayode restored Burnley's two goal lead and Vydra turned provider four minutes from the end, squaring for Ali Koiki to tap home into an empty net.

"It was good performance with lots of positives," said Duff.

"All four senior players got 90 minutes, which is what they needed, and they were all excellent.

"I thought there were plenty of good performances from the young lads as well.

"I don't think it's the team we're going to have all season, but they just went about it the right way.

"I thought they’re goallie was probably man-of-the match because we had numerous chances.

"Obviously it would of been nice to have the clean sheet as well, but the way they went about it from the first whistle was excellent."