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Relegation, a word seldom used around Turf Moor for 20 years of more, was looking a distinct possibility in October 1969, after Burnley had won o The season began with a new man in goal. Following the sacking of Harry Thompson in the close season. Peter Mellor came from Whitton Albion and quickly established himself with some spectacular displays, most notably against Leeds at Turf Moor on August 26th when Mellor earned Burnley a draw against all the run of play. Harry Pott's twelve years as club manager ended in February 1970 when he "moved Upstairs" to become general manager and Jimmy Adamson took over the running of the team. One of Adamson's first results was the best of the season, as Steve Kindon hit a hat-trick in the 5-0 rout of Nottingham Forest. Kindon averaged almost a goal a game over the second half of the season as the team's form improved. The man who did more than any to ensure that Burnley would have a 24th consecutive season in Division One, however, was Ralph Coates. His consistent displays in midfield earned him an England debut against Northern Ireland at Wembley on April 21st 1970. Coates was also selected by Alf Ramsey in his original squad of 28 for the Mexico World Cup, but was left out when the final 22 were named.
Compiled by Ray Simpson & Wallace Chadwick 
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1969 - 1970 Division One*
nly one of their first thirteen League games. Three successive victories, two of them both remarkably by 4-2 after being 2-0 down, relieved the situation, but early 1970 was a time when good results were needed badly. Happily, the results came and Burnley finished up 14th for the fourth season in a row.
