BURNLEY created more and better chances against in-form Sheffield United, but couldn't keep their slim play-off hopes alive.
Instead, the Blades made the most of their openings, as an unmarked Billy Sharp headed in the decisive goal on 53 minutes, after James Beattie put Kevin Blackwell's side in front with a stunning free kick just after the half-hour.
Frustratingly, Brian Jensen had been relatively untroubled during the 90 minutes as a whole compared to counterpart Paddy Kenny, who withstood some late pressure.
The Clarets battled for an equaliser after Andrew Cole struck his fifth goal since joining on loan from Sunderland in January on 81 minutes, but they were thwarted at every turn.
On a brighter note, Michael Duff was named in the squad for the first time since recovering from the multiple knee ligament damage he sustained in September.
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