CLASHES between Burnley and Blackburn Rovers generally offer no shortage of controversy.

Even as far back as 1891 the rivalry between the neighbouring football sides was intense.

So much so that the game on December 12 that year had to be ended early.

Burnley got off to a dream start at home to the FA Cup holders when Tom Nicol forced the ball over the line after a goalmouth scramble ensued from James Matthew's cross, with only seven minutes on the clock.

Nicol was involved in the build-up to the second 15 minutes later, which Hugh Galbraith scored.

Controversy reigned over the third goal as Rovers goalkeeper Herbie Arthur appeared to pluck the ball from under the net from Billy Bowes' shot, then place it for a goal kick.

But the referee was wise to the situation and had no hesitation in awarding Bowes the goal on 35 minutes.

A three-goal advantage would serve Burnley well for the adverse conditions in the second half.

Not only had it snowed for more than two hours before kick-off, and was continuing to fall, but they would be playing into the wind after the break.

It was said that injury-hit Rovers were reluctant to come out for the second half and were prepared to give Burnley the points on the grounds they had 'given up' because of the poor weather conditions.

In the end seven players appeared for the re-start, but an already extraordinary game took several more strange twists before the referee had to abandon proceedings.

Joe Lofthouse fouled Burnley captain Alex Stewart and a brief fight ensued between the duo.

Both were sent off after being separated, prompting the remaining Rovers players, with the exception of goalkeeper Arthur, to walk off.

After waiting a few moments for them to re-appear, the referee threw the ball in the air and the Burnley players rushed at goal.

Nicol scored, but when Arthur's appeal for offside was upheld, the game was abandoned.

BURNLEY: Hillman; Walker, Lang, McFettridge, Matthew, Stewart, Nicol, Bowes, Galbraith, McLardie, Graham.

BLACKBURN ROVERS: Arthur; Forest, Forbes, Smith, Almond, Campbell, Lofthouse, Hall, Southworth, Walton, Townley.

Referee: J C Clegg (Sheffield) Attendance: 5,500