Burnley secured their first points of the new Premier League season, beating fellow promoted side Sunderland 2-0 at Turf Moor.
An early Lyle Foster goal was ruled out by VAR; however, goals from captain Josh Cullen and Jaidon Anthony were enough to see the Clarets secure all three points.
The match marked **Scott Parker**’s first Premier League victory in August, and **Burnley**’s first in the month since 2019.
The hosts performed well overall, demonstrating physicality they lacked during their last top-flight campaign.
Martin Dúbravka – 7
An acrobatic save early on was the most of the 36-year-old’s action for the day. Otherwise, Dúbravka was relatively untested by the Black Cats.
Kyle Walker – 7
A composed performance from the right-back on his home debut. A few of his excellent cross-field balls from pre-season went wayward, but he reverted well to a central defensive role and played a key part in **Jaidon Anthony**’s goal.
Hjalmar Ekdal – 8
Ekdal returned to Turf Moor after spending the second half of last season on loan at Groningen. The Swede impressed, winning most of his challenges and demonstrating an excellent reading of the game.
Maxime Estève – 9
A very impressive performance from the Frenchman. Willing to put his body on the line for the team. He appeared to come off worse in a challenge and limped off with a worrying-looking injury.
Quilindschy Hartman – 8
Adapted well into a more defensive role, not pushing as far forward as usual. Performed his duties well, though his corner deliveries were a noted weakness.
Josh Cullen – Man of the Match – 10
Cullen continued his good form from last week. The skipper was instrumental throughout, taking his goal well and being involved in almost every attacking move from midfield.
Lesley Ugochukwu – 8
A solid performance from the Frenchman. Demonstrated a passing range Turf Moor has not seen since Sander Berge. He appears to be a natural partner to Josh Cullen, complementing the captain's defensive work.
Hannibal Mejbri – 6
A mixed display from Hannibal. Gave the ball away several times and committed two reckless fouls. Improved significantly in the second half, making a number of attacking runs.
Jacob Bruun Larsen – 6
A poor first-half showing was followed by a much-improved second. Making his first start in over three months and playing on the wrong flank, he grew into the game and created a few solid efforts.
Lyle Foster – 8
As seen two years ago, Foster looks suited to Premier League football. The South African played with confidence. His first goal was ruled out for a harsh foul, but he continued to create strong chances.
Jaidon Anthony – 8
A game of two halves. A sloppy first period was followed by a superb second half. Fully deserving of his first goal of the season after creating several quality opportunities.
Substitutes
Oliver Sonne – 6
Sonne impressed in the right wing-back role. He effectively marked Simon Adingra, showing improvement from last week.
Josh Laurent – 6
A solid showing in a slightly more advanced midfield role. Lacked some agility and pace, but still contributed defensively.
Loum Tchaouna – 8
An impressive cameo from the Frenchman. Made multiple positive contributions during his 15 minutes. Unlucky to see a curling shot drift just wide of Robin Roefs' goal.
Joe Worrall – 7
Came on for the injured Maxime Estève, fitting into an already solid defence. Made a few smart interceptions to help secure Burnley’s first Premier League clean sheet of the season.
Zian Flemming – N/A
Came on deep in injury time and did not have enough time to make a definitive impact.