Burnley: Nathan Tella and Ian Maatsen react to Conor Roberts' Middlesbrough strike | OneFootball

Some former Clarets have reacted to Conor Roberts' Friday screamer

Aston Villa's Ian Maatsen and Bayer Leverkusen's Nathan Tella have reacted to Burnley defender Conor Roberts' long-range strike, which earned the Clarets a point against Middlesbrough at Turf Moor on Friday evening.

The Championship weekend's curtain-raiser saw the points shared between two promotion hopefuls in East Lancashire. Boro took the lead after 13 minutes through Anfernee Dijksteel, who marauded forward to convert with a lovely dinked finish after Dan Barlaser's pinpoint pass.

But the visitors' advantage would last just 24 minutes as the Clarets hit back before halftime through Roberts.

The defender scored five goals in his last full season at this level but bagged just one last term and hadn't added to his 2024/25 tally ahead of Friday night either. That didn't stop him trying a speculative long-range effort.

In blustery conditions at Turf Moor, Roberts' left-footed curler was just what Scott Parker's side needed as it looped over Boro goalkeeper Seny Dieng and into the back of the net.

Neither side was able to find a winner in the second half and the pair had to settle instead for a point each – leaving the Clarets third and Middlesbrough fifth after 19 games.

Roberts' spectacular strike has certainly turned heads. The Wales international took to Instagram to reflect on his long-range strike, with the caption: "Sometimes you just have to kick it at the white things."

A raft of current and former Clarets were quick to add their assessments of the equaliser. Josh Brownhill was one of the current squad that shared his thoughts, claiming credit for the small part he played.

He said: "One of the best assists you’ll see! You’re welcome son"

There was no shortage of ex-teammates, who have since sealed transfers away from Turf Moor or seen their loan spells come to an end, ready to weigh in.

Maatsen said: "Robertssss"

Tella added: "Storm Darragh with the assist"

Dara O'Shea said: "Giddy up the boy"

Conor Roberts goal only papers over Burnley's attacking cracks

Having goals shared across the team is a positive for any EFL side but it's no secret that Burnley are struggling in the final third under Scott Parker.

The Clarets aren't exactly short on attacking talent, yet they're the lowest scorers in the top six and a large chunk of their 24 goals came in early-season 4-1 and 5-0 victories.

While it's great to see Roberts chipping in from range and the Welshman has played his part in what is a resolute defence, fans would no doubt have preferred to see more from their forward players against the Teessiders.

Burnley are in the mix for the top two but Parker has yet to really find the answer going forward.