Laws was in a mischievous mood after last weekend's victory against Hull that gives his team a chance of avoiding relegation from the Premier League. And the former Sheffield Wednesday boss could not resist a dig at his old pal Bruce as they prepared to go head to head on Saturday at the Stadium of Light. Under Bruce's stewardship the Black Cats have enjoyed some good results at home this season, not least of all against Liverpool when goalkeeper Jose Reina conceded a goal after being distracted by a beach ball. Laws said: "I know Steve Bruce very well as we were at Wallsend Boys Club together. That's how far back we go. "We have gone our different ways but got back together in the management side. He is a good friend. "I saw him the other week and said 'I am going to send you a bucket of sand, a spade and a beachball. You enjoy yourself on holiday. It starts before we turn up on Saturday'. Let's hope they are thinking like that."' With the clock ticking down Burnley are looking for back to back away wins in the league after claiming their first in 17 games at the KC Stadium, their maiden away win this season. Laws is looking for more of the same and believes the attitude of unsung defender Michael Duff sums up what will be needed in the remaining four games. Despite being bloodied and bandaged at Hull, he gave it his all and Laws said: "It epitomises what we need. "Through thick and thin, sweat and tears we will give it everything. People were prepared to put their heads in where it hurts, even if it was against each other."
