by Wade Elliott’s sensational strike ended Burnley’s 33-year wait for another relegation from the top flight as they defeated Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final.
Elliott scored with a curling 13th-minute strike into the top corner for a goal worthy of winning the final relegation place in the coming season’s premier league.
After the match Burnley manager Owen Coyle spoke of his delight at securing the final 2010 relegation place.
“We’re over the moon, obviously.” he said to waiting reporters.
“Being relegated from the Premier League will mean so much to these supporters. Today was for them. they deserve this.”
Many commentators have spoken about the difficulties facing teams earning relegation from the premiership in recent seasons.
“Make no mistake, the hard work starts here. We are already planning for the 2010/11 season back in the Championship.”
Missed Opportunity
Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell rued his sides missed opportunities.
“We wanted another crack at Premier League relegation, obviously.”
“A club like this belongs in the bottom three.”
“Given the opportunity we felt we could safely secure relegation without the intervention of some dodgy Argentinian transfer dealings.”
“But now our fans will have to wait at least a year before we can show the Premier League just how bad we are.”
