Burnley turfed out of FA Cup on perfect day for Louis Reed and Mansfield

Guardian Sport

by Will Unwin at Turf Moor

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Burnley’s FA Cup journey came to an end in dramatic fashion as Mansfield Town secured a remarkable victory, booking their place in the fifth round for the first time in over 50 years. The game was defined by Louis Reed’s stunning free-kick, which sealed the deal for the League One side against Premier League strugglers Burnley. Despite being the lower-tier team, Mansfield demonstrated sheer determination and effort, turning the tide in their favor after a tense encounter. Burnley entered the match as heavy favorites but struggled to impose their brand of football. The Clarets’ season has been a rollercoaster, with relegation seemingly inevitable, leaving the FA Cup as their last hope for redemption. However, they fell short against a gritty Mansfield side that capitalized on their opponents’ lack of quality and composure under pressure. The victory was not just about the scoreline but the sheer heart and passion displayed by Nigel Clough’s men. Mansfield worked tirelessly to deserve this win, leaving their fans euphoric long after the final whistle. The game highlighted the unpredictability of football and the importance of belief and hard work in overcoming odds. For sports enthusiasts, this match serves as a reminder of why the FA Cup is so special—it gives smaller clubs like Mansfield a platform to create history. Burnley’s struggles also underscore the challenges faced by mid-table Premier League teams, who often lack the necessary quality to compete

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/14/2026