Dyche keeps open mind on Burnley goal

After his side won their first game away from home since the end of November, Burnley manager Sean Dyche said he was remaining “open-minded” about how far his side could go this season.

Two goals from Chris Wood added to a superb strike from Ashley Barnes in a game that was overshadowed by violent scenes of protest among the West Ham United fans, as well as multiple pitch invasions.

But Burnley, who are five points behind sixth-placed Arsenal, remained focused, eventually cruising to their second consecutive victory after a run of 12 games without a win. “We weren’t looking for that [winless] run,” Dyche said. “Our squad was stretched for the first time and a few decisions went against us.

“Some players looked around and could see players coming back and the squad getting stronger.

“We got to 40 points last week and 43 points with eight games to go is very pleasing,” he added. “Now it is open-mindedness. We will keep doing what we are doing, keep being diligent and see where it can take us.”

For West Ham, it was a disappointing return to the side for Joe Hart, who made his first Premier League appearance of the year but fumbled horribly for Wood’s second goal. “Joe is mentally strong,” said David Moyes, the West Ham manager.