James Tarkowski’s moment of opportunism hauls Burnley out of the bottom three with win over Brighton

Burnley 1-0 Brighton: James Tarkowski used his chest to deflect in Jack Cork’s effort and earn Sean Dyche’s side their first league win since September

James Tarkowski sees his touch divert the ball home (PA)

Burnley earned a badly needed three points to move out of the Premier League relegation zone with a hard-earned 1-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.

On a rainy, windy afternoon at Turf Moor, nothing was going to wipe away the smiles of manager Sean Dyche and the Burnley fans as James Tarkowski's goal late in the first half proved decisive before they finished by soaking up late pressure.

Though the goal was credited to Tarkowski, it was Jack Cork who was responsible for the 40th minute breakthrough when his shot deflected off the England defender's midriff into the net.

The game was played in torrential rain (PA)

It was only what Burnley deserved though after they took control of affairs in the second part of the opening period with Chris Wood and Robbie Brady, who had already volleyed narrowly over, forcing fine saves from Mat Ryan.

Burnley, who had lost their last three fixtures at Turf Moor while conceding nine goals in the process, felt they should have earned a second-half penalty when Yves Bissouma's extravagant bicycle kick in his own box caught Phil Bardsley.

Burnley celebrate the only goal of the game (Getty Images)

It marked a special day for Burnley goalkeeper Joe Hart, who was making his 400th league appearance in English football and proved his quality in the late stages as the home side held on under severe pressure from mid-table Brighton.

Reuters