Burnley have struggled in the Premier League since promotion from the Championship in the 2024-25 season, with just three wins in 21 games, the most recent a 3-2 victory over fellow struggling Wolves on October 26.
When the draw came out it looked like a tough FA Cup third round tie for the Clarets as they were just six places above Millwall in the football pyramid, who were fifth in the Championship and struggling to advance.
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Burnley boss Scott Parker made eight changes while Lions manager Alex Neil made seven, although it was one of the Clarets’ most experienced players who put them ahead.
Ashley Barnes, 36, made his first start after four substitute appearances and had his first chance to cool off after strong performances from Jaidon Anthony and Jacob Bruun Larsen.
Parker will be pleased with the performance of backup goalkeeper Max Weiss, with the 21-year-old German stopper making three saves to thwart a potential Millwall counterattack in just his third game for the club.
Weiss blocked Edomo Emmahu’s shot and denied two Liam Cooper headers before France midfielder Chaona doubled Burnley’s lead with his second goal since his £13m move from Lazio last summer.
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Anthony’s strike and Barnes’ second gave Burnley a four-goal lead before Barnell scored at the second try as the Clarets made it five in front of just 6,856 spectators.
Cockburn’s late consolation denied Burnley a rare clean sheet, although the game provided some welcome relief in a difficult season for Burnley, who sit 19th in the Premier League and eight points from safety.
Parker hopes his team can build on this and start replicating that form around the league.