Another win away from home another clean sheet and another classic away performance of soaking up the pressure before sneaking a late winner, it's not been a bad Christmas for the team from Deepdale.
Game of two halves, the home side dominated the first half thanks in part to North End's iffy defending where Huntington was having a struggle against Shrewsbury's lively on loan forward Tom Eaves.
A quiet opening spell you could say dull eventually came to live thanks to Eaves, his run down the right hand side of the pitch caused problems for the non tackling North End defenders who were bailed out by a good save by Rudd at his near post.
More defensive mishaps this time by Brownhill let in Taylor whose shot brought a good save form the diving Rudd, at the other end Brownhill's shot looked goal bound until it hit a Shrews defender and went for a corner.
Not a great half for the visitors however they upped the tempo in the second half and looked the better side although the final pass was sadly lacking, littl was seen of the Shrews as an attacking force apart from one effort which went way over the bar.
North End continued to push and probe with full back Buchanan prominent. North End made three substitutions all forwards as manager Grayson went for the win.
10 minutes from the the winner, for once North End got behind the Shrewsbury defence and fired the ball across the face of the goal, defender Woods under pressure from Gallagher bundled the ball into the net. (0-1)
North End eased through the last minutes of the game to claim the points much to the delight of the 1600 visiting fans.
Not pretty but professional, seven wins out of the last eight away games, if the home form was decent the Whites would be miles clear but it isn't and they are not.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL
Shrewsbury Town 0 Preston North End 1 Att 6379
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Saturday, December 28, 2013
City edge game
An entertaining game between Lancaster City and Ossett Town saw Lancaster win 2-1 in front of 220 at a chilly Giant Axe. The visitors were on a good run having won 8 out of the last 9 games, however they were behind after 3 minutes when Connerton scored for Lancaster, no idea what happened was looking at something else when the goal was scored. (1-0)
After the early set back Town slowly began to get into the game and were nearly level when a Patterson shot from 20 plus yards went narrowly wide.
With nippy winger Moke causing problems for the City backline Town began to dominate but without the killer final ball were finding it hard to get through the City back line in which Steel was outstanding.
Both sides played the game as it should be played passing to feet not hoofing it forward as you sometimes find at the lower levels of the football echelons.
City looked slightly off the pace in the first half and it was no surprise that Ossett leveled virtually dead on half time. A free kick from just outside the box found Qualter in space at the back post, he did not miss with his header. (1-1)
After a quiet start to the second half City regained the lead on the hour through Jackson, his shot not the most powerful found the corner of the net, it has to be said that the Town keeper Dobbs went down in stages and should really have done better. (2-1)
Town pressed forward and started to leave gaps at the back substitute Taylor should have scored for Lancaster but his header was excellently save d by Dobbs.
Connerton was unlucky not to increase the lead further however his shot hit the post. Ossett threw men forward but an equalizer did not come and City got a welcome three points.
After the early set back Town slowly began to get into the game and were nearly level when a Patterson shot from 20 plus yards went narrowly wide.
With nippy winger Moke causing problems for the City backline Town began to dominate but without the killer final ball were finding it hard to get through the City back line in which Steel was outstanding.
Both sides played the game as it should be played passing to feet not hoofing it forward as you sometimes find at the lower levels of the football echelons.
City looked slightly off the pace in the first half and it was no surprise that Ossett leveled virtually dead on half time. A free kick from just outside the box found Qualter in space at the back post, he did not miss with his header. (1-1)
After a quiet start to the second half City regained the lead on the hour through Jackson, his shot not the most powerful found the corner of the net, it has to be said that the Town keeper Dobbs went down in stages and should really have done better. (2-1)
Town pressed forward and started to leave gaps at the back substitute Taylor should have scored for Lancaster but his header was excellently save d by Dobbs.
Connerton was unlucky not to increase the lead further however his shot hit the post. Ossett threw men forward but an equalizer did not come and City got a welcome three points.
Lancaster City 2 Ossett Town 1 Att 220
http://youtu.be/fIzDLcU3QEc
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Grinding out a win
This was the classic case of grinding out a win for Preston in their localish derby at Brunton Park, Carlisle. A moment of class from Preston's 17 year midfielder ensured the points were heading back south down the M6.
A fairly turgid first 30 minutes dominated by the home side but without any threat to the visitors goal although they did get the ball in the net through Ehmer but it was rightly ruled out for off side. When North End did venture forward they did actually look like scoring, Gallagher's 35 yard effort went narrowly over the bar, whilst Humphry's angled drive was well saved by home keeper Amos.
Just before half time North End took the lead, with probably the best bit of football in the game, a quick series of passes around the Carlisle area lead to Brownhill curling a class shot past the despairing Amos. (0-1)
An early Amoo effort for Carlisle went narrowly wide, before North End took control, several chances went begging including one for King whose close range header was destined for the net until Amos pulled off a great save.
North End began to sit deeper and deeper and Carlisle started to get a foot hold in the game, although apart from two Lawrence efforts barely saw the whites of Rudd's eye.
North End shut up shop and eased through the final 10 minutes of the game.
Poor game, lack of atmosphere in the ground with the pm kick off but three points and that is what they wanted.
http://youtu.be/CeTQLpmlGj8
Carlisle United 0 Preston North End 1 Att 7934
A fairly turgid first 30 minutes dominated by the home side but without any threat to the visitors goal although they did get the ball in the net through Ehmer but it was rightly ruled out for off side. When North End did venture forward they did actually look like scoring, Gallagher's 35 yard effort went narrowly over the bar, whilst Humphry's angled drive was well saved by home keeper Amos.
Just before half time North End took the lead, with probably the best bit of football in the game, a quick series of passes around the Carlisle area lead to Brownhill curling a class shot past the despairing Amos. (0-1)
An early Amoo effort for Carlisle went narrowly wide, before North End took control, several chances went begging including one for King whose close range header was destined for the net until Amos pulled off a great save.
North End began to sit deeper and deeper and Carlisle started to get a foot hold in the game, although apart from two Lawrence efforts barely saw the whites of Rudd's eye.
North End shut up shop and eased through the final 10 minutes of the game.
Poor game, lack of atmosphere in the ground with the pm kick off but three points and that is what they wanted.
http://youtu.be/CeTQLpmlGj8
Carlisle United 0 Preston North End 1 Att 7934
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Little Christmas cheer
It is customary at Christmas too give gifts to friends and family not guests who rock up once a year. Brentford were the beneficiaries of North Ends generosity as they duly beat the home side 3-0 though in fairness to them the better side did win.(Sadly)
A very even first 20 minutes with both sides playing some excellent football, Brentford had had once chance which Donaldson should really had scored with. Then came the first gift from Santa, Donaldson chased a ball towards the by line, hurtling of his goal came Rudd, he lunged for the ball got the man, it was in the area and it was a clear penalty.
Forshaw sent Rudd the wrong way. (0-1)
Within 3 minutes it was two, Forshaw this time was denied by Rudd however picked up the rebound and passed to the better placed Trotta who squeezed the ball home. (0-2)
North End were rocking and probably did well to get too half time only two down.
A double substitution gave the home side a boost and within 10 minutes the home side were given a great chance to get back in the game when Garner was fouled in the area.
Garner took the kick but the giant Button guessed right and saved the kick. North End's last chance to salvage something but Davies's header from a close range went wide rather than in.
From then on in there was more chance of Malky Mackay being manager of Cardiff this time tomorrow than any points for the home side. Brentford knew they were home and dry and began to pass the ball around making the home side chase shadows.
It was only a matter of time until they scored against following some haphazard passing by North End, Saunder had a lot to do when he got the ball at his feet with his back to goal, no problem flicked the ball up and smashed the ball past Rudd into the net, quality finish. (0-3)
They could have had more Dean went close with a header but the three they got was enough.
Preston North End 0 Brentford 3 Att 10332
David Coleman RIP spent much of my sporting life listening to Mr Coleman, thanks for the memories.
A very even first 20 minutes with both sides playing some excellent football, Brentford had had once chance which Donaldson should really had scored with. Then came the first gift from Santa, Donaldson chased a ball towards the by line, hurtling of his goal came Rudd, he lunged for the ball got the man, it was in the area and it was a clear penalty.
Forshaw sent Rudd the wrong way. (0-1)
Within 3 minutes it was two, Forshaw this time was denied by Rudd however picked up the rebound and passed to the better placed Trotta who squeezed the ball home. (0-2)
North End were rocking and probably did well to get too half time only two down.
A double substitution gave the home side a boost and within 10 minutes the home side were given a great chance to get back in the game when Garner was fouled in the area.
Garner took the kick but the giant Button guessed right and saved the kick. North End's last chance to salvage something but Davies's header from a close range went wide rather than in.
From then on in there was more chance of Malky Mackay being manager of Cardiff this time tomorrow than any points for the home side. Brentford knew they were home and dry and began to pass the ball around making the home side chase shadows.
It was only a matter of time until they scored against following some haphazard passing by North End, Saunder had a lot to do when he got the ball at his feet with his back to goal, no problem flicked the ball up and smashed the ball past Rudd into the net, quality finish. (0-3)
They could have had more Dean went close with a header but the three they got was enough.
Preston North End 0 Brentford 3 Att 10332
David Coleman RIP spent much of my sporting life listening to Mr Coleman, thanks for the memories.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Poor but points in the bag
A game which will not live long in the memory saw Preston beat manager less Bristol City 1-0, in truth the home side looked slightly jaded after the exploits of Tuesday night at Port Vale, also two enforced changes and a family illness saw North End's midfield completely changed.
A couple of early Gallagher efforts were easily saved by City keeper Parish.
City started to dominate, a header from Flint was well saved by Rudd, but Gillett was a great chance by hitting a poor shot wide when well placed, slightly against the run of play North End took the lead following a free kick when King headed home from close range.
Apart from an early chance for Laird, the second half was dull in the least although Wagstaff rattled the North End bar about 10 minutes from the end. As the game drifted to a close both sides were reduced to 10 men, City's Osbourne objected to a challenge from Gallagher, Osbourne butted Gallagher then threw a punch which flattened one of his team mates. Following the 20 man melee both players were sent off, with the argy bargy continuing in the tunnel as they walked off.
It was that kind of game, three points though and that is all that counts.
Preston North End 1 Bristol City 0 Att 8803
A couple of early Gallagher efforts were easily saved by City keeper Parish.
City started to dominate, a header from Flint was well saved by Rudd, but Gillett was a great chance by hitting a poor shot wide when well placed, slightly against the run of play North End took the lead following a free kick when King headed home from close range.
Apart from an early chance for Laird, the second half was dull in the least although Wagstaff rattled the North End bar about 10 minutes from the end. As the game drifted to a close both sides were reduced to 10 men, City's Osbourne objected to a challenge from Gallagher, Osbourne butted Gallagher then threw a punch which flattened one of his team mates. Following the 20 man melee both players were sent off, with the argy bargy continuing in the tunnel as they walked off.
It was that kind of game, three points though and that is all that counts.
Preston North End 1 Bristol City 0 Att 8803
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
A return to the crease. (First phase now over)
Sadly my three week break comes to an end and until the New Year so does my cricket return, as per usual the two of us took residence in Garstang Sports centre.
The three sessions have been enjoyable, batting has improved as has the bowling.
Next step, proper nets with the red ball, might have to start buying kit at this rate.
The three sessions have been enjoyable, batting has improved as has the bowling.
Next step, proper nets with the red ball, might have to start buying kit at this rate.
He got the wrong man, Grommit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A fourth away win on the bounce for Preston as they win 2-0 at Port Vale with as good as an away win that I have seen for many a year, considering the fact they were down to 10 men after just 13 minutes it was an astounding performance.
Garner got both goals for the visitors but he was possibly lucky still to be on the pitch following the incident in the 13th minute. The ball was played away down the right hand side with North End attacking when the official Mr Madley stopped play,Griffiths and Garner looked to be replaying moves from a 1970's porn movie although it did appear punches were thrown, however was not overly sure about this as I had borrowed Arsene Wenger's eyes.
After consulting with his linesman Mr Madley sent off North End's Kilkenny who had nothing to do with the fracas, understandibly Kilkenny was a tad reluctant to leave the pitch, with the referee having to placate Preston manager Simon Grayson.
Garner who had already had one shot tipped away was to prove a pivotal figure in the remainder of the match.
North End re organised and were now playing a 441 formation and were hanging on as Vale pressed forward, but on the half hour Garner seized on a loose pass advanced on goal before unleashing a powerful shot which dipped in underneath the bar. (0-1)
Within a minute Vale could have been level but Rudd's super finger tip save kept out Pope's header by a gnat nadger. Vale launched a bombardment of the visitors goal but in truth posed little danger.
Vale's Dickinson should also have seen red before half time but his two handed push on a North End player was deemed only to be a yellow.
An early Gallagher free kick was easily saved by Neal, Vale were now very direct, but North End's back line were more than a match for them, if they got past them they couldn't get past Rudd who made a couple of good saves, when beaten Rudd saw his defender head one clear from the line.
With 19 minutes to go a speedy break by North End saw Hayhurst brought down in the box by the keeper, Garner, who else drilled the penalty home to secure the points for Preston.
Vale strived to reduce the arrears but stoic defending kept them out. The 1039 visiting fans celebrated a great victory with a chorus of"We've only got 10 men"
Port Vale 0 Preston North End 2 Att 5889
http://youtu.be/ekn4_MDLptk Garner penalty
Garner got both goals for the visitors but he was possibly lucky still to be on the pitch following the incident in the 13th minute. The ball was played away down the right hand side with North End attacking when the official Mr Madley stopped play,Griffiths and Garner looked to be replaying moves from a 1970's porn movie although it did appear punches were thrown, however was not overly sure about this as I had borrowed Arsene Wenger's eyes.
After consulting with his linesman Mr Madley sent off North End's Kilkenny who had nothing to do with the fracas, understandibly Kilkenny was a tad reluctant to leave the pitch, with the referee having to placate Preston manager Simon Grayson.
Garner who had already had one shot tipped away was to prove a pivotal figure in the remainder of the match.
North End re organised and were now playing a 441 formation and were hanging on as Vale pressed forward, but on the half hour Garner seized on a loose pass advanced on goal before unleashing a powerful shot which dipped in underneath the bar. (0-1)
Within a minute Vale could have been level but Rudd's super finger tip save kept out Pope's header by a gnat nadger. Vale launched a bombardment of the visitors goal but in truth posed little danger.
Vale's Dickinson should also have seen red before half time but his two handed push on a North End player was deemed only to be a yellow.
An early Gallagher free kick was easily saved by Neal, Vale were now very direct, but North End's back line were more than a match for them, if they got past them they couldn't get past Rudd who made a couple of good saves, when beaten Rudd saw his defender head one clear from the line.
With 19 minutes to go a speedy break by North End saw Hayhurst brought down in the box by the keeper, Garner, who else drilled the penalty home to secure the points for Preston.
Vale strived to reduce the arrears but stoic defending kept them out. The 1039 visiting fans celebrated a great victory with a chorus of"We've only got 10 men"
Port Vale 0 Preston North End 2 Att 5889
http://youtu.be/ekn4_MDLptk Garner penalty
Saturday, November 23, 2013
No doubt about it, mugged.
Well, it feels like I've been mugged, Colchester United managed to draw against Preston at Deepdale, how they managed to snaffle a point is still a mystery. Preston dominated vast swathes of the game and didn't win, 26 attempts at goal against 4 by the visitors, both sides mustered 1 goal.
The home side set the trend for missing chances as early as the first 30 seconds when ex England forward Kevin Davies headed the ball down and over the bar from 5 yards, minutes later Garner brought out a camera save from Walker in the U's net.
It seemed only a matter of time before the net would be bulging, but no, Walker denied Garner and Davies, before Gallagher had two free kicks well saved by the Essex custodian.
Ironically shortly before half time a misdirected pass set up a rare opportunity for the visitors Ibehre hit it over the bar.
Just as it looked as the home side would be level at half time, they scored, nice cross from Gallagher easy header from Garner. (1-0)
Colchester changed tactics in the second half and North End followed suit by hammering the ball anywhere, passing to a team mate was not an option, a turgid opening spell gave way to more North End attacks.
Gallagher was unlucky when Walker tipped his header onto the bar and safety, Garner missed a good chance, then Davies was denied by a last ditch tackle before missing a goalden chance by firing wide from close range.
Then with the inevitability of an England batting collapse, Colchester scored, nice goal mind, low left footed shot by Garbutt from 20 yards(1-1) his first ever league goal. Stunned silence from the home sides support, the 100 away fans were as happy as they could possibly be.
Try as they could North End could not find a way though except a split second after the final whistle when Garner's shot went into the net, didn't count though.
Two points dropped
Preston North End 1 Colchester United 1 Att 8492
The home side set the trend for missing chances as early as the first 30 seconds when ex England forward Kevin Davies headed the ball down and over the bar from 5 yards, minutes later Garner brought out a camera save from Walker in the U's net.
It seemed only a matter of time before the net would be bulging, but no, Walker denied Garner and Davies, before Gallagher had two free kicks well saved by the Essex custodian.
Ironically shortly before half time a misdirected pass set up a rare opportunity for the visitors Ibehre hit it over the bar.
Just as it looked as the home side would be level at half time, they scored, nice cross from Gallagher easy header from Garner. (1-0)
Colchester changed tactics in the second half and North End followed suit by hammering the ball anywhere, passing to a team mate was not an option, a turgid opening spell gave way to more North End attacks.
Gallagher was unlucky when Walker tipped his header onto the bar and safety, Garner missed a good chance, then Davies was denied by a last ditch tackle before missing a goalden chance by firing wide from close range.
Then with the inevitability of an England batting collapse, Colchester scored, nice goal mind, low left footed shot by Garbutt from 20 yards(1-1) his first ever league goal. Stunned silence from the home sides support, the 100 away fans were as happy as they could possibly be.
Try as they could North End could not find a way though except a split second after the final whistle when Garner's shot went into the net, didn't count though.
Two points dropped
Preston North End 1 Colchester United 1 Att 8492
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
A return to the crease (Week 2)
Back to Garstang leisure centre for more OAP cricket, same scenario as last week, Mr Tweedy and I. Interesting places these Leisure centres, people seem to go there to keep fit, exercise bikes, weights, yoga and other sadistic instruments of torture, glad I’m unfit, have to keep it that way, it’s the future.
As for the cricket the batting I found easier didn’t feel uncomfortable this week not as much pain in the right side of my body more of a natural feel about it, pity the bat is a heavy piece of wood.
The bowling was a bit poor but using tennis balls is not quite like using a proper cricket ball, but you can give it some air to confuse the batsman.(occasionally)
Back again next week, will keep you posted.
As for the cricket the batting I found easier didn’t feel uncomfortable this week not as much pain in the right side of my body more of a natural feel about it, pity the bat is a heavy piece of wood.
The bowling was a bit poor but using tennis balls is not quite like using a proper cricket ball, but you can give it some air to confuse the batsman.(occasionally)
Back again next week, will keep you posted.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
A return to the crease (The long awaited return to the game of cricket)
About a year ago a friend of mine decided at the age of 65 decided that he was going to make a return to the game of cricket by joining a club and playing.
Stupid idea, well I thought it was until he told me that he had been picked to play.
Were they desperate? Apparently not. although having seen one game the standard was, how shall we say, not the best, he didn’t disgrace himself, getting a few wickets and scoring about 100 runs in 6 innings.
Anyway, it go me thinking, should I give it a go. The more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea. So got myself a pair of new training shoes and last night two of us with combined ages of 125 headed off to Garstang leisure centre to get ready for the 2014 season.
Firstly as the equipment was being set up, decided to see if I could still actually run, managed about 90 secs before my aching legs told me to stop, but that’s 90 seconds more than I have run in the last 20 years.
The actual bowling and batting wasn’t bad, never having batted in glasses before was slightly different, also due to being slightly fatter!!!! than when I last played found having a correct batting stance was difficult to work out but I managed to hit the ball which was something.
Bowling was slightly more difficult, using tennis balls is not the best however managed to get a decent line and length in my first period of bowling.
Slightly stiffer when I bowled in my second spell but was overall quite pleased with the result.
Second session is next week followed by proper nets in the New Year.
Bring it on.
Stupid idea, well I thought it was until he told me that he had been picked to play.
Were they desperate? Apparently not. although having seen one game the standard was, how shall we say, not the best, he didn’t disgrace himself, getting a few wickets and scoring about 100 runs in 6 innings.
Anyway, it go me thinking, should I give it a go. The more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea. So got myself a pair of new training shoes and last night two of us with combined ages of 125 headed off to Garstang leisure centre to get ready for the 2014 season.
Firstly as the equipment was being set up, decided to see if I could still actually run, managed about 90 secs before my aching legs told me to stop, but that’s 90 seconds more than I have run in the last 20 years.
The actual bowling and batting wasn’t bad, never having batted in glasses before was slightly different, also due to being slightly fatter!!!! than when I last played found having a correct batting stance was difficult to work out but I managed to hit the ball which was something.
Bowling was slightly more difficult, using tennis balls is not the best however managed to get a decent line and length in my first period of bowling.
Slightly stiffer when I bowled in my second spell but was overall quite pleased with the result.
Second session is next week followed by proper nets in the New Year.
Bring it on.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Comfortable
In the end it was a comprehensive victory for Preston over a spirited Barnet side who did not throw in the towel even though losing 6-0, in truth the contest was over after Keanu Marsh-Brown sending off in the 15th minutes, his lunge on North End's Scot Laird led to a straight red card from referee Mr Joyce, it was a pity really because the Bees had started brightly.
Within 3 minutes of the sending off North End were ahead, Lee Holmes' perfect cross found Clarke at the back post, simple header.(1-0) Barnet had a sneak of a chance but a super tackle from Huntington prevented what would have been a surprise equaliser. North End were finding acres of space and it was no surprise that they increased their lead before half time.
A cross from the left by Laird saw Garner drift between the two giant Barnet defenders to guide his header past Stack.(2-0)
The tie was wrapped up on half time when a fine team move led to Gallagher placing his shot past Stack.
Holmes started the second half by hitting the bar witha free kick, however following a leate challenge by Beavon on Yiadom, Mr Joyce showed the red card again and now both sides had 10.
Barnet smelt a chance of getting back into the game with substitute Crawford bringing a save from Rudd in the home goal, but North End soon scored a fourth to end any doubts that the home support may have had.
Holmes down the right, crossed into Gallagher's feet, he didn't miss, he only had to wait another 10 minutes for his hat trick blasting the ball past Stack with the Bees defence nowhere to be seen.
Garner made it 6 following a quick free kick.
Job done.
A word finally about Edgar Davids, Barnet's 40 year old player manager barely wasted a ball all afternoon and worked his socks off trying to help his team, no more when Garner went on a mazy run, he was only stopped from scoring by the Dutchman, 15 seconds later he was setting up an attack down the other end, he must have been some player when he was younger.
Preston North End 6 Barnet 0 Att 5217 and they used a pink ball
Within 3 minutes of the sending off North End were ahead, Lee Holmes' perfect cross found Clarke at the back post, simple header.(1-0) Barnet had a sneak of a chance but a super tackle from Huntington prevented what would have been a surprise equaliser. North End were finding acres of space and it was no surprise that they increased their lead before half time.
A cross from the left by Laird saw Garner drift between the two giant Barnet defenders to guide his header past Stack.(2-0)
The tie was wrapped up on half time when a fine team move led to Gallagher placing his shot past Stack.
Holmes started the second half by hitting the bar witha free kick, however following a leate challenge by Beavon on Yiadom, Mr Joyce showed the red card again and now both sides had 10.
Barnet smelt a chance of getting back into the game with substitute Crawford bringing a save from Rudd in the home goal, but North End soon scored a fourth to end any doubts that the home support may have had.
Holmes down the right, crossed into Gallagher's feet, he didn't miss, he only had to wait another 10 minutes for his hat trick blasting the ball past Stack with the Bees defence nowhere to be seen.
Garner made it 6 following a quick free kick.
Job done.
A word finally about Edgar Davids, Barnet's 40 year old player manager barely wasted a ball all afternoon and worked his socks off trying to help his team, no more when Garner went on a mazy run, he was only stopped from scoring by the Dutchman, 15 seconds later he was setting up an attack down the other end, he must have been some player when he was younger.
Preston North End 6 Barnet 0 Att 5217 and they used a pink ball
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Frustrating
A frustrating afternoon for the home fans in a gate of 9800 as Preston drew with Tranmere Rovers at Deepdale on a windy and sometimes wet afternoon, only a late Joe Garner headed saved the home side from defeat.
North End struggled all afternoon to break down the visitors 9-0-1 formation in which the main tactic seemed to be hammer it long and let Ryan Lowe chase after it, which the veteran forward did with aplomb.
An early Rudd save kept the visitors from taking an early lead, but the traffic was mainly one way towards the Tranmere goal, saying that though North End final pass was abysmal, many chances going begging due to dire distribution.
North End main efforts came down the left hand side of the pitch were Gallagher and Laird linked well. The home side were unlucky just before the break when Keane got the ball past Fon Williams in the Rovers goal, however his shot lacked power and was cleared to Welsh whose 20 yard shot narrowly missed.
Out of the blue the visitors took the lead in the second half, Keane appeared to be fouled, nothing was given and the ball up field found the home defence sadly wanting as Atkinson cooly curled the ball round Rudd from just outside the box. (0-1)
North End responded by making three changes however they were struggling to create anything worthwhile. Lowe nearly capitalised on some dodgy defending but Rudd saved the day.
Rovers had now gone to a 10-0-0 formation, it worked for a while, they wasted time, fell over at the slightest contact which fooled the referee, many a time.
Then with the clock on 90 minutes North End broke down the left and for once a cross was perfect, Garner rose above the defender to power home a header. (1-1)
Both sides went close from free kicks with Garner and Koumas being the takers.
Lastly a word about the officials, CLUELESS
Preston North End 1 Tranmere Rovers 1 Att 9600
North End struggled all afternoon to break down the visitors 9-0-1 formation in which the main tactic seemed to be hammer it long and let Ryan Lowe chase after it, which the veteran forward did with aplomb.
An early Rudd save kept the visitors from taking an early lead, but the traffic was mainly one way towards the Tranmere goal, saying that though North End final pass was abysmal, many chances going begging due to dire distribution.
North End main efforts came down the left hand side of the pitch were Gallagher and Laird linked well. The home side were unlucky just before the break when Keane got the ball past Fon Williams in the Rovers goal, however his shot lacked power and was cleared to Welsh whose 20 yard shot narrowly missed.
Out of the blue the visitors took the lead in the second half, Keane appeared to be fouled, nothing was given and the ball up field found the home defence sadly wanting as Atkinson cooly curled the ball round Rudd from just outside the box. (0-1)
North End responded by making three changes however they were struggling to create anything worthwhile. Lowe nearly capitalised on some dodgy defending but Rudd saved the day.
Rovers had now gone to a 10-0-0 formation, it worked for a while, they wasted time, fell over at the slightest contact which fooled the referee, many a time.
Then with the clock on 90 minutes North End broke down the left and for once a cross was perfect, Garner rose above the defender to power home a header. (1-1)
Both sides went close from free kicks with Garner and Koumas being the takers.
Lastly a word about the officials, CLUELESS
Preston North End 1 Tranmere Rovers 1 Att 9600
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Points shared
The game between Lancaster City and ex league club Darlington 1883 promised to be a good game on paper, out on the pitch it was a different matter. Both sides cancelled each other out in a game without a lot of goal mouth action.
First half action was contained to the middle of the pitch with Lancaster probably shading the first 45 minutes. The only notable effort on goal came from Mahoney for the home side, it ended up in the gardens behind the goal.
Thompson worked hard for the visitors but rarely did they get within striking distance of the home goal.
Half time the open air bar was full with fans from both sides taking advantage of a quick pint of Lancaster Bomber, possibly in the future, most clubs at this level should turn the terraces into a cafe society drinking a pint whilst discussing the finer points of the action in front of them, seems a sensible way to go.
The second half was dire,, one early Darlington effort and a couple of shots from City’s Wearing in the middle of the half were the sum total of action that took place.
The referee mercifully ended the game, as the fans drifted away the rain began and there was a bit of Autumn chill, the nights are drawing in.
A forgettable game.
First half action was contained to the middle of the pitch with Lancaster probably shading the first 45 minutes. The only notable effort on goal came from Mahoney for the home side, it ended up in the gardens behind the goal.
Thompson worked hard for the visitors but rarely did they get within striking distance of the home goal.
Half time the open air bar was full with fans from both sides taking advantage of a quick pint of Lancaster Bomber, possibly in the future, most clubs at this level should turn the terraces into a cafe society drinking a pint whilst discussing the finer points of the action in front of them, seems a sensible way to go.
The second half was dire,, one early Darlington effort and a couple of shots from City’s Wearing in the middle of the half were the sum total of action that took place.
The referee mercifully ended the game, as the fans drifted away the rain began and there was a bit of Autumn chill, the nights are drawing in.
A forgettable game.
Lancaster City 0 Darlington 1883 0 Att 594
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Points shared
On a night when the so called Champions league took up air time on TV, Preston and Bradford City played out an entertaining 2 all draw at Deepdale. City backed be a noisy 2910 fans looked a club that is going upwards in more ways than one.
The club has had tremendous upturn in fortune in the last few years with two trips to Wembley last season annd they are also a team of giants, non more than man mountain James Hansen who was a threat in the air all night.
As North End found out after 5 minutes when a cross from the right was headed down past Rudd to give the visitors an early lead. North End struggled to cope with the big man in the early stages and added to that threat was lively pacey winger Kyel Reid.
Reid could have made it two when a mazy run lead to his dipping shot squirming through Rudd and onto the post and away to safety, Wright then pulled out a stunning defensive header to keep the deficit a one.
Out of the blue on the half hour North End levelled, Laird's free kick found Clarke unmarked at the back post and he headed past McLaughlin and into the net. (1-1)
Half tiem came and went as North End upped the pace and looked far better although De Vita's effort for City should have hit the target instead of the wasting the opportunity.
McLaughlin then superbly saved Humphrys shot, but within a few minutes the save didn't matter as the home side went ahead, same method Laird free kick, back post, Wright this time unmarked goal. City didn't earn from the first goal.
The lead didn't last long City equalised from a corner McArdle getting in front of his man to head home from close range. (2-2)
Reid went close and a thunderous Folan volley were kept out by Rudd. Hansen thought he had got the winner but was given offside.
Credit to City they play to their strengths and it's highly effective.
The referee had a shocker and a final word on Kyel Reid, good talent, goes down far to easily although the referee gave up being fooled by him after the 65th time he went down.
Preston North End 2 Bradford City 2 Att 11200
The club has had tremendous upturn in fortune in the last few years with two trips to Wembley last season annd they are also a team of giants, non more than man mountain James Hansen who was a threat in the air all night.
As North End found out after 5 minutes when a cross from the right was headed down past Rudd to give the visitors an early lead. North End struggled to cope with the big man in the early stages and added to that threat was lively pacey winger Kyel Reid.
Reid could have made it two when a mazy run lead to his dipping shot squirming through Rudd and onto the post and away to safety, Wright then pulled out a stunning defensive header to keep the deficit a one.
Out of the blue on the half hour North End levelled, Laird's free kick found Clarke unmarked at the back post and he headed past McLaughlin and into the net. (1-1)
Half tiem came and went as North End upped the pace and looked far better although De Vita's effort for City should have hit the target instead of the wasting the opportunity.
McLaughlin then superbly saved Humphrys shot, but within a few minutes the save didn't matter as the home side went ahead, same method Laird free kick, back post, Wright this time unmarked goal. City didn't earn from the first goal.
The lead didn't last long City equalised from a corner McArdle getting in front of his man to head home from close range. (2-2)
Reid went close and a thunderous Folan volley were kept out by Rudd. Hansen thought he had got the winner but was given offside.
Credit to City they play to their strengths and it's highly effective.
The referee had a shocker and a final word on Kyel Reid, good talent, goes down far to easily although the referee gave up being fooled by him after the 65th time he went down.
Preston North End 2 Bradford City 2 Att 11200
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Swift exit
Any realistic chance of Preston reaching the next round of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy disappeared after 10 minutes, in that time Oldham were two up, could have been five as the much changed home side capitulated to early Oldham pressure.
Oldham took their time with the first goal, 16 seconds to be precise, dodgy defending on the left hand, cross into the box and Philliskirk's total mishit
dribbled into the net.
Carnage followed in the next nine minute, Stuckmann saved one from Mills, almost let a back pass into the net, he got ironic cheers the next time he touched the ball(did not amuse him)
Then came the second North End gave the ball away , cross form the right this time and Wesolowski expertly buied the ball in the neat Great finish.
80 minutes to the final whistle promised to be a long night.
The first half followed the pattern of the visitors keeping the ball when they did lose it the home side generously passed it back. A smattering on boos at half time, not surprising really.
Two substitutions, a change of formation(442) and the home side immediately looked better,just a matter of time until the home side would score three times and snatch a glorious victory, well it would have been if Joe Garner had had his scoring boots on, missed a catalogue of chances, only downside of a decent performance by him. A Clarke header was cleared off the line, Oldham rarely threatened in the second period and as a crowd of 5900 started to drift away you knew a comeback wasn't going to happen.
So farewell JPT, on the other hand desperately cold Tuesday nights in November and December will be avoided watching the next couple of rounds.
Preston North End 0 Oldham Athletic 2 Att 5900
Oldham took their time with the first goal, 16 seconds to be precise, dodgy defending on the left hand, cross into the box and Philliskirk's total mishit
Carnage followed in the next nine minute, Stuckmann saved one from Mills, almost let a back pass into the net, he got ironic cheers the next time he touched the ball(did not amuse him)
Then came the second North End gave the ball away , cross form the right this time and Wesolowski expertly buied the ball in the neat Great finish.
80 minutes to the final whistle promised to be a long night.
The first half followed the pattern of the visitors keeping the ball when they did lose it the home side generously passed it back. A smattering on boos at half time, not surprising really.
Two substitutions, a change of formation(442) and the home side immediately looked better,just a matter of time until the home side would score three times and snatch a glorious victory, well it would have been if Joe Garner had had his scoring boots on, missed a catalogue of chances, only downside of a decent performance by him. A Clarke header was cleared off the line, Oldham rarely threatened in the second period and as a crowd of 5900 started to drift away you knew a comeback wasn't going to happen.
So farewell JPT, on the other hand desperately cold Tuesday nights in November and December will be avoided watching the next couple of rounds.
Preston North End 0 Oldham Athletic 2 Att 5900
Derailed
The months of October,November and December have been extremely mean to Preston in the last three years in fact their last home league win in these months was in December 2010 with a 1-0 home win against Ipswich Town, so today's home defeat to Crewe Alexandra was no real surprise.
The home side started well, Laird forcing Phillips to a save from the first attack of the game from the resulting corner Hume hit the bar. From then on in it would not get any better. A Beavon effort went close but then against the run of play the Alex scored through Moore, he waltzed through the defence and slid the ball under Rudd.(0-1)
North End piled on the pressure but could not level before the break.
The early stages of the second half were similar Davies went narrowly wide with a header, but ponderous build up play caused the Alex little problems, and it was no surprise when Alex broke away half way through the half to increase their lead, the initial break was cleared but the ball ended up at the feet at Inman who curled a great shot round Rudd to secure the points for Alex.
Soon after they hit the bar, which would have added insult to injury if it had gone in. The Railwaymen they started to waste time and go down injured for the slightest thing much to the home fans disgust, the frustration finally erupted from one loan fan when ex Preston loan player Aneke went down deep in injury time, the shout of "You were **** when you were here, your still **** now, piss off" It was that kind of afternoon.
Preston North End 0 Crewe Alexandra 2 Att 9268
The home side started well, Laird forcing Phillips to a save from the first attack of the game from the resulting corner Hume hit the bar. From then on in it would not get any better. A Beavon effort went close but then against the run of play the Alex scored through Moore, he waltzed through the defence and slid the ball under Rudd.(0-1)
North End piled on the pressure but could not level before the break.
The early stages of the second half were similar Davies went narrowly wide with a header, but ponderous build up play caused the Alex little problems, and it was no surprise when Alex broke away half way through the half to increase their lead, the initial break was cleared but the ball ended up at the feet at Inman who curled a great shot round Rudd to secure the points for Alex.
Soon after they hit the bar, which would have added insult to injury if it had gone in. The Railwaymen they started to waste time and go down injured for the slightest thing much to the home fans disgust, the frustration finally erupted from one loan fan when ex Preston loan player Aneke went down deep in injury time, the shout of "You were **** when you were here, your still **** now, piss off" It was that kind of afternoon.
Preston North End 0 Crewe Alexandra 2 Att 9268
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Easy
Lancaster cruised through to the 2nd round of the FA Trophy with a 6-0 win over New Mills, it could have been more but for some over elaboration in the second half.
It could have been all so different if Meakin’s effort had not rattled the bar after about 20 minutes after an even period of play.
City had made a couple of changes after Tuesday night defeat and looked altogether sharper, New Mills looked useful going forward with goal scorer supreme Fish playing for them, however it was the lack of any defence which did for New Mills.
Within 10 minutes of Meakin’s miss, Wills, Marshall and Akrigg had scored three times, the pick being Marshall’s flicked header from a free kick. By half time it was four as Ince hammered home a left footed shot after good work on the left by Kilfin.
The half time conversation was how many more would City get, it was only two. Credit though to the visitors who didn’t give up and were very close to reducing the arrears when a 30 yards shot by the left back went narrowly wide.
City missed chance after chance until they were gifted a fifth when the Millers keeper duffed a clearance straight to Ince who chipped the ball back over him into the empty net.
Millers thought they had scored late on but the ball was cleared from the line by Marshall, deep into injury time Jackson made it six and City now have the delights of Seel Park, Mossley in the next round.
It could have been all so different if Meakin’s effort had not rattled the bar after about 20 minutes after an even period of play.
City had made a couple of changes after Tuesday night defeat and looked altogether sharper, New Mills looked useful going forward with goal scorer supreme Fish playing for them, however it was the lack of any defence which did for New Mills.
Within 10 minutes of Meakin’s miss, Wills, Marshall and Akrigg had scored three times, the pick being Marshall’s flicked header from a free kick. By half time it was four as Ince hammered home a left footed shot after good work on the left by Kilfin.
The half time conversation was how many more would City get, it was only two. Credit though to the visitors who didn’t give up and were very close to reducing the arrears when a 30 yards shot by the left back went narrowly wide.
City missed chance after chance until they were gifted a fifth when the Millers keeper duffed a clearance straight to Ince who chipped the ball back over him into the empty net.
Millers thought they had scored late on but the ball was cleared from the line by Marshall, deep into injury time Jackson made it six and City now have the delights of Seel Park, Mossley in the next round.
Lancaster City 6 New Mills 0 Att 163
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Cup Exit
Lancaster City’s exit from the FA Cup at the hands of Curzon Ashton was tame, the visitors dominated apart from a win or bust effort from the home side as the visitors tired in the lat 15 minutes.
Both sides were unbeaten in all matches prior to kick off and understanderbly the play was cagey, chances were few and far between as defences dominated, although that said Curzon had two efforts which should possibly have resulted in goals, whilst City thanks to a stunning solo run should have scored his shot being scooped wide, should have hit the target.
The game seemed destined to be 0-0 at halftime but on the stroke of the interval with City’s defence split a cross was heading towards an unmarked Curzon forward, Marshall in his effort to clear the ball only managed to put it past his own keeper into the net. (0-1)
Curzon went close with a shot from distance but were not to be denied for long when a header across goal found Rowney who headed over the keeper into the net.(0-2)
City keeper Hale saved well to stop the visitors adding another as City struggled to get out of their own half. The introduction of three City substitutes perked the home side into a sustained period of attack towards the end of the game, Green in the Curzon goal produced one stunning save and managed to block the rebound which was also goal bound, Jackson shot over when well placed, deep into injury time Jackson scored for the home side. (1-2)
There was still time for a Curzon player to get a red card for a stamp on a home defender and with virtually the last kick of the game Akrigg was inches away from levelling the score.
In truth Curzon deserved the win and good luck to them in the next round away at Stourbridge.
Both sides were unbeaten in all matches prior to kick off and understanderbly the play was cagey, chances were few and far between as defences dominated, although that said Curzon had two efforts which should possibly have resulted in goals, whilst City thanks to a stunning solo run should have scored his shot being scooped wide, should have hit the target.
The game seemed destined to be 0-0 at halftime but on the stroke of the interval with City’s defence split a cross was heading towards an unmarked Curzon forward, Marshall in his effort to clear the ball only managed to put it past his own keeper into the net. (0-1)
Curzon went close with a shot from distance but were not to be denied for long when a header across goal found Rowney who headed over the keeper into the net.(0-2)
City keeper Hale saved well to stop the visitors adding another as City struggled to get out of their own half. The introduction of three City substitutes perked the home side into a sustained period of attack towards the end of the game, Green in the Curzon goal produced one stunning save and managed to block the rebound which was also goal bound, Jackson shot over when well placed, deep into injury time Jackson scored for the home side. (1-2)
There was still time for a Curzon player to get a red card for a stamp on a home defender and with virtually the last kick of the game Akrigg was inches away from levelling the score.
In truth Curzon deserved the win and good luck to them in the next round away at Stourbridge.
Lancaster City 1 Curzon Ashton 2 Att 249
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Still unbeaten
or 75 minutes this game was similar in character to Swindon's last visit to Deepdale, they were getting a hammering at the hands of a rampant Preston side, 2 down and looking any thing but secure at the back, but credit to the injury Wiltshire side they made the home side sweat for the points in the 2-1 Preston win.
A warm late September afternoon saw North End take an early lead when a good move down the left hand side of the pitch led o Hume heading home the rebound after Davies shot had been saved by the slightly dodgy keeper Foderingham.
From that moment North End won every tackle, header and were playing Swindon off the park, they should have been comfortably out of sight by half time, Davies missed a sitter although was spared by the offside flag, a spectacular Beavon effort went over the bar when he had time to control the ball and put in a better effort. Hard to complain this was the best home performance of the season and the the half time lead was no more than they deserved.
North End quickly doubled the lead early in the second half albeit with some defending which will go down in the classic defending cock ups award. A North End centre from the left came to nothing and McEveley lobbed back pass to his keeper sailed majestically over Foderingham's head into the back of the net. (2-0)
North End were in full control and nothing looked further away than a home win.
But Swindon slowly started to get back into the game and Ajose brought a fine save from Rudd in the home goal, to give Swindon credit they stuck to their passing game and were finally rewarded 6 minutes from time, when following a corner N'Guessan aimed a lazy right foot at the ball and curled it just inside the far post. (2-1)
Game on, North End were begging to look a little weary and in the dying embers of the game Rudd pulled off a fantastic finger tip save to deny the visitors a point in all truth that would not have been deserved.
Finally spare a thought for Swindon's keeper Wes Foderingham substituted after 20 minutes last season by the mad Italian Di Canio, he had another afternoon to forget at Deepdale, after the comic own goal, his kicking was dreadful, lucky not to concede another own goal but at least he lasted 90 minutes this time.
Still unbeaten in the league 5 wins on the bounce early days still but doing nicely.
Preston North End 2 Swindon Town 1 Att 9296
A warm late September afternoon saw North End take an early lead when a good move down the left hand side of the pitch led o Hume heading home the rebound after Davies shot had been saved by the slightly dodgy keeper Foderingham.
From that moment North End won every tackle, header and were playing Swindon off the park, they should have been comfortably out of sight by half time, Davies missed a sitter although was spared by the offside flag, a spectacular Beavon effort went over the bar when he had time to control the ball and put in a better effort. Hard to complain this was the best home performance of the season and the the half time lead was no more than they deserved.
North End quickly doubled the lead early in the second half albeit with some defending which will go down in the classic defending cock ups award. A North End centre from the left came to nothing and McEveley lobbed back pass to his keeper sailed majestically over Foderingham's head into the back of the net. (2-0)
North End were in full control and nothing looked further away than a home win.
But Swindon slowly started to get back into the game and Ajose brought a fine save from Rudd in the home goal, to give Swindon credit they stuck to their passing game and were finally rewarded 6 minutes from time, when following a corner N'Guessan aimed a lazy right foot at the ball and curled it just inside the far post. (2-1)
Game on, North End were begging to look a little weary and in the dying embers of the game Rudd pulled off a fantastic finger tip save to deny the visitors a point in all truth that would not have been deserved.
Finally spare a thought for Swindon's keeper Wes Foderingham substituted after 20 minutes last season by the mad Italian Di Canio, he had another afternoon to forget at Deepdale, after the comic own goal, his kicking was dreadful, lucky not to concede another own goal but at least he lasted 90 minutes this time.
Still unbeaten in the league 5 wins on the bounce early days still but doing nicely.
Preston North End 2 Swindon Town 1 Att 9296
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Looking good
In the end Lancaster City duly defeated bottom of the league Radcliffe Borough by 4-1, goals by Hunter, Jackson 2 and Wearing to a solitary reply by Thornton.
Borough almost scored in their first attack shooting just over, but apart from that early score City dominated the first half, an early free kick was floated in by Hunter, it missed everybody and ended up in the net. More non existant defending from a corner led to the second from Jackson and it was all too easy as City started to switch off thinking the game had been won.
If the impressive Chadwick had managed to hit the net instead of the keeper, it may have stung City back into action,but it’s hard to complain when your 2 up.
Jackson nearly added a third with a neat flick but thoroughly against the run of play Radcliffe pulled a goal back on the hour, City’s defence went missing from a corner and Thornton bundled the ball home after a pass from Chadwick.
The goal stung City into action and from 25 yards Jackson volleyed home in superb style, credit to the visitors they battled back and Chadwick brought a good save from Hale to keep the two goal lead in tack.
It was their last meaningful effort and in the dying embers of the game Wearing was fouled in the area, the referee played advantage and Wearing kept his cool and slotted home the fourth.
Borough almost scored in their first attack shooting just over, but apart from that early score City dominated the first half, an early free kick was floated in by Hunter, it missed everybody and ended up in the net. More non existant defending from a corner led to the second from Jackson and it was all too easy as City started to switch off thinking the game had been won.
If the impressive Chadwick had managed to hit the net instead of the keeper, it may have stung City back into action,but it’s hard to complain when your 2 up.
Jackson nearly added a third with a neat flick but thoroughly against the run of play Radcliffe pulled a goal back on the hour, City’s defence went missing from a corner and Thornton bundled the ball home after a pass from Chadwick.
The goal stung City into action and from 25 yards Jackson volleyed home in superb style, credit to the visitors they battled back and Chadwick brought a good save from Hale to keep the two goal lead in tack.
It was their last meaningful effort and in the dying embers of the game Wearing was fouled in the area, the referee played advantage and Wearing kept his cool and slotted home the fourth.
Lancaster City 4 Radcliffe Borough 1 Att 192
Saturday, September 14, 2013
No welcoming return
In the end North End ran out fairly comfortable winners against Stevenage managed by ex Preston Manager Graham Westley, a lot of pre match hype in respects of the game had been whipped up by the ex and some home fans found it almost impossible not to boo the man when he strode down the touchline in his bright red tracksuit clutching his pre match brew.
He snubbed the handshake of his former assistant John Dreyer and from then on Mr Westley's afternoon was only destined to deteriorate.
His team however were far more up to the challenge in the early stages against a very pedestrian home side, though saying that Hume should really have put the home side in front with a header at the back post.
Stevenage began to dominate although their efforts at the home goal were dreadful, corner flags were in more danger, eventually the home side upped the pressure and both Beavon and Hume hit the woodwork within the space of 10 seconds.
Stevenage also had a glorious chance to take the lead but following a bit of pinball in the North End area, Deacon's shot sailed safely over the bar.
The home side took the lead on the stroke of half time when Byrom made some space in the area following a corner and chipped the ball to Huntington who did the rest with his head. (1-0)
A far more open second half with chances at either end, Shroot for the visitors began to make his mark, one mazy run left defenders for dead, as he tried to set up a colleague however a brilliant Wright challenged saved the day.
North End nearly doubled the lead but Beavon's super volley was excellent one handed save by Day saved the visitors although not for long.
A fine move by Davies and Beavon led to Humphry's putting over an inch perfect cross for ex Stevenage player Laird to head home. (2-0)
North End started to play with freedom and started to get on top although Rudd had to make a great one handed save.
A third goal with six minutes to goal sealed the points again this was a quality goal, Beavon, Holmes , Laird combined to tee up Davies, he blasted the ball home from close range. (3-0)
Mr Westley was now being serenaded by the home fans, much to the delight of many, his side nearly scored with the last move of the game but Jones' header hit the bar.
Mr Westley didn't wait to greet his players he disappeared down the tunnel, refused to talk to the local journalists and probably left Deepdale for the last time never to be seen again by the home faithful.
Preston North End 3 Stevenage 0 Att 8855
He snubbed the handshake of his former assistant John Dreyer and from then on Mr Westley's afternoon was only destined to deteriorate.
His team however were far more up to the challenge in the early stages against a very pedestrian home side, though saying that Hume should really have put the home side in front with a header at the back post.
Stevenage began to dominate although their efforts at the home goal were dreadful, corner flags were in more danger, eventually the home side upped the pressure and both Beavon and Hume hit the woodwork within the space of 10 seconds.
Stevenage also had a glorious chance to take the lead but following a bit of pinball in the North End area, Deacon's shot sailed safely over the bar.
The home side took the lead on the stroke of half time when Byrom made some space in the area following a corner and chipped the ball to Huntington who did the rest with his head. (1-0)
A far more open second half with chances at either end, Shroot for the visitors began to make his mark, one mazy run left defenders for dead, as he tried to set up a colleague however a brilliant Wright challenged saved the day.
North End nearly doubled the lead but Beavon's super volley was excellent one handed save by Day saved the visitors although not for long.
A fine move by Davies and Beavon led to Humphry's putting over an inch perfect cross for ex Stevenage player Laird to head home. (2-0)
North End started to play with freedom and started to get on top although Rudd had to make a great one handed save.
A third goal with six minutes to goal sealed the points again this was a quality goal, Beavon, Holmes , Laird combined to tee up Davies, he blasted the ball home from close range. (3-0)
Mr Westley was now being serenaded by the home fans, much to the delight of many, his side nearly scored with the last move of the game but Jones' header hit the bar.
Mr Westley didn't wait to greet his players he disappeared down the tunnel, refused to talk to the local journalists and probably left Deepdale for the last time never to be seen again by the home faithful.
Preston North End 3 Stevenage 0 Att 8855
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Easy
186 people made the correct decision of not watching Roy’s overpaid players struggle to a draw against Ukraine, instead they were at the Giant Axe the ome of Lancaster City watching grass roots football.
The match apart from the first 10 minutes was decidedly one sided as Lancaster out footballed Prescot Cables to stroll to an easy 2-0 win.
Prescot fresh from a 7-1 victory over what appears to be a schizophrenic New Mills side(who won 4-1 on Monday Night) started brightly and fired in a couple of efforts which went close, but after the intial burst City began to take control.
Their passing game began to pick holes in the Cables defence, Elderton headed home from a right wing cross but was given offside, it wasn’t long before City did score, non existant marking from a corner led to Marshall heading home from close range. (1-0)
Kilfin and Taylor went close with efforts both after mazy dribbles but Cables managed to stagger on to half time with only a one goal deficit.
The second half was a procession, Taylor, Kilfin, Hunter all had chances to increase the lead as Prescot tried to stem the tide of the game, irony was the best chance of the half fell to Prescot but the No 6 screwed his shot horribly wide.
City ensured the points 7 minutes from time when substitute Winder zipped down the wing his cross was slid home by Mahoney from close range. (2-0)
And that was it.
The match apart from the first 10 minutes was decidedly one sided as Lancaster out footballed Prescot Cables to stroll to an easy 2-0 win.
Prescot fresh from a 7-1 victory over what appears to be a schizophrenic New Mills side(who won 4-1 on Monday Night) started brightly and fired in a couple of efforts which went close, but after the intial burst City began to take control.
Their passing game began to pick holes in the Cables defence, Elderton headed home from a right wing cross but was given offside, it wasn’t long before City did score, non existant marking from a corner led to Marshall heading home from close range. (1-0)
Kilfin and Taylor went close with efforts both after mazy dribbles but Cables managed to stagger on to half time with only a one goal deficit.
The second half was a procession, Taylor, Kilfin, Hunter all had chances to increase the lead as Prescot tried to stem the tide of the game, irony was the best chance of the half fell to Prescot but the No 6 screwed his shot horribly wide.
City ensured the points 7 minutes from time when substitute Winder zipped down the wing his cross was slid home by Mahoney from close range. (2-0)
And that was it.
Lancaster City 2 Prescot Cables 0 Att 186
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Lucky ? not in the slightest!
There you go, classic case of win when playing like a bunch of strangers. As they say rather be a lucky winner than an unlucky loser. Oldham supporters probably woke up this morning with the "How did we lose that game feeling" Having dominated almost all of the game they lost 2-1.
Oldham started bightly outpassing the home side, they looked quicker to the ball, had movement and looked an excellent side, an early shot from Mills went wide, also had a string of early corner which were whipped in at pace but excellent keeping by Rudd kept them at bay.
Two early free kicks at the other end brought the first Preston goal. The second kick taken by Laird was flicked on by Beavon sending the Oldham custodian the wrong way. (1-0)
Oldham piled on the pressure and had a string of corners which the home side desperately kept out including a fine save by Rudd via defender and post to safety. The impressive Schemltz, and Smith ran the home side ragged but luckily for the home side they lacked someone with a real poacher's instinct.
Grayson made a change by swapping Laird to the left wing and in an instance the balance of the home side improved.
Would have been happy to take a one goal lead into half time, but instead we took a two goal lead into the break, from North End's only corner of the game Davies won a penalty following a push Wesolowski, looked a nailed on penalty until you saw it on TV.
Davies penalty was not for saving. (2-0)
Oldham started the second half with another flurry of corners, however North End should have increased the lead when following a fine move Beavon, played in Laird, should have buried it, it went past the far post. Minutes later Davies could have added another but his shot went slightly wide.
Play became a little more even, then with 7 minutes left from one of the many Oldham corners Tarkowski headed home. (2-1) North End hung on to take the points, a very entertaining game for the TV.
Yep we were lucky but the score was:-
Preston North End 2 Oldham Athletic 1 Att 10292
Oldham started bightly outpassing the home side, they looked quicker to the ball, had movement and looked an excellent side, an early shot from Mills went wide, also had a string of early corner which were whipped in at pace but excellent keeping by Rudd kept them at bay.
Two early free kicks at the other end brought the first Preston goal. The second kick taken by Laird was flicked on by Beavon sending the Oldham custodian the wrong way. (1-0)
Oldham piled on the pressure and had a string of corners which the home side desperately kept out including a fine save by Rudd via defender and post to safety. The impressive Schemltz, and Smith ran the home side ragged but luckily for the home side they lacked someone with a real poacher's instinct.
Grayson made a change by swapping Laird to the left wing and in an instance the balance of the home side improved.
Would have been happy to take a one goal lead into half time, but instead we took a two goal lead into the break, from North End's only corner of the game Davies won a penalty following a push Wesolowski, looked a nailed on penalty until you saw it on TV.
Davies penalty was not for saving. (2-0)
Oldham started the second half with another flurry of corners, however North End should have increased the lead when following a fine move Beavon, played in Laird, should have buried it, it went past the far post. Minutes later Davies could have added another but his shot went slightly wide.
Play became a little more even, then with 7 minutes left from one of the many Oldham corners Tarkowski headed home. (2-1) North End hung on to take the points, a very entertaining game for the TV.
Yep we were lucky but the score was:-
Preston North End 2 Oldham Athletic 1 Att 10292
Monday, August 26, 2013
Attracted to draws
The stalemate syndrome continues with Lancaster’s 1 all draw with localish neighbours Burscough. On a day more suited to watching the ball being dispersed to the boundary, City attempted to win their 2nd home match of the season after defeating Cammell Laird in their opening game.
City should have been ahead after 2 minutes but Jackson pass to the goalkeeper lacked any power not to worry within a minute Kilfin had given the home side the lead prodding home his rebounded shot from 6 yards. (1-0) The loud Burscough keeper protested that it was hand ball the referee took no interest in his claim.
City looked as if they would score at will but they missed several good chances but poor shooting and good keeping by Fog Horn kept them at bay.
On rare occasions Burscough ventured forward, a lone supporter with the Lancaster fans shouted YES, as the ball floated harmlessly past the far post.
On half time City were given a warning when Burscough had three chances to level in quick succession all were missed.
City never really got started in the second half and were second best, it was no surprise on 70 minutes when Roberts-Nurse fired home the leveller.(1-1)
Briefly City rallied and Marshall headed narrowly wide and Steel had a header cleared from the line. Back came Busrcough and only last ditch defending and a great save from McDonald kept them level.
Still unbeaten after 4 games but can play better.
City should have been ahead after 2 minutes but Jackson pass to the goalkeeper lacked any power not to worry within a minute Kilfin had given the home side the lead prodding home his rebounded shot from 6 yards. (1-0) The loud Burscough keeper protested that it was hand ball the referee took no interest in his claim.
City looked as if they would score at will but they missed several good chances but poor shooting and good keeping by Fog Horn kept them at bay.
On rare occasions Burscough ventured forward, a lone supporter with the Lancaster fans shouted YES, as the ball floated harmlessly past the far post.
On half time City were given a warning when Burscough had three chances to level in quick succession all were missed.
City never really got started in the second half and were second best, it was no surprise on 70 minutes when Roberts-Nurse fired home the leveller.(1-1)
Briefly City rallied and Marshall headed narrowly wide and Steel had a header cleared from the line. Back came Busrcough and only last ditch defending and a great save from McDonald kept them level.
Still unbeaten after 4 games but can play better.
Lancaster City 1 Burscough 1 Att 243
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Well another Saturday and another draw, this time it was non league Padiham and Lancaster City’s turn to suffer from my stalemate syndrome.
At the quaintly named Arbories Memorial stadium both sides failed to find the target in a fairly entertaining 90 minutes football.
Before the game called in at the cricket ground next door to find the home side were struggling against Settle 2nd’s and were 34-3.(Decent cricket ground as well)
As to the match Lancaster dominated virtually the entire game without finding the killer touch to kill off the home side.
City now managed by ex England international Darren Peacock, passed the ball about in impressive style and looked to have taken on the managers mantra of playing the ball on the floor and to be fair to the home side they played the same passing football when they did get the ball.
Although dominating with the ball City were restricted to long range efforts, one from Elderton narrowly clearing the bar. The home side were extremely well organised and were proving difficult to break down although they caused City some problems this was mainly from set pieces.
Just before half time City almost took the lead following a good old fashioned goalmouth scramble both Jackson and Kilfin could not squeeze the ball over the line.
The second half followed the first in that City had the vast majority of possession however the best chance of the game fell to the home side, Allen managed to escape the City defence but his shot was well saved by MacDonald.
Taylor was narrowly wide for City as Padiham quite happily settled for a draw.
At the quaintly named Arbories Memorial stadium both sides failed to find the target in a fairly entertaining 90 minutes football.
Before the game called in at the cricket ground next door to find the home side were struggling against Settle 2nd’s and were 34-3.(Decent cricket ground as well)
As to the match Lancaster dominated virtually the entire game without finding the killer touch to kill off the home side.
City now managed by ex England international Darren Peacock, passed the ball about in impressive style and looked to have taken on the managers mantra of playing the ball on the floor and to be fair to the home side they played the same passing football when they did get the ball.
Although dominating with the ball City were restricted to long range efforts, one from Elderton narrowly clearing the bar. The home side were extremely well organised and were proving difficult to break down although they caused City some problems this was mainly from set pieces.
Just before half time City almost took the lead following a good old fashioned goalmouth scramble both Jackson and Kilfin could not squeeze the ball over the line.
The second half followed the first in that City had the vast majority of possession however the best chance of the game fell to the home side, Allen managed to escape the City defence but his shot was well saved by MacDonald.
Taylor was narrowly wide for City as Padiham quite happily settled for a draw.
Padiham 0 Lancaster City 0 Att 211
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Level again
In the end this was a good point for Preston especially as this was a game they could so easily have lost. MK Dons enjoying vast periods of dominance especially in the second half, however as per normal the Dons lacked a proven goalscorer and drew 2-2 when the result could have been so much better for them.
On a dank Northern afternoon, North End took an early lead when a Humphrys cross was diverted past his own keeper by Kay 1-0.
Davies with a shot and a header went close for the home side before the Dons had settled down.
But their smooth passing style soon began to cause the home side trouble, sadly their shooting was woeful, especially speedy winger Banton, two shots nearly hitting unsuspecting spectators behind the goal.
His third shot was slightly different, he picked up the ball 30 yards out and rattled home a super goal. (1-1) The lead was restored within 4 minutes when some hapless defending let in Garner to slide the ball past Martin.(2-1)
Holmes almost added a third a couple of minutes later when Martin's clearance went straight to Holmes whose chip towards the unguarded goal went inches wide.
Apart from an early Davies blockbuster which went narrowly wide, the Dons bossed the majority of the half, a triple substitution after 55 minutes only made them better with evergreen Luke Chadwick showing his quality. The Dons had taken off Banton, who rarely was applauded by the home fans for his performance.
It wasn't long before the Dons levelled, from the spot after Humphrys brought down Carruthers.
Williams cooly scored the spot kick. (2-2)
A brief period of home pressure, before the Dons took control again and they almost snatched the lead when Bamford was centimetres away from scoring. The home side had a goal disallowed for offside by Wroe but held on to nick a point.
An entertaining game for the 9944 who were there.
Preston North End 2 MK Dons 2 Att 9944
On a dank Northern afternoon, North End took an early lead when a Humphrys cross was diverted past his own keeper by Kay 1-0.
Davies with a shot and a header went close for the home side before the Dons had settled down.
But their smooth passing style soon began to cause the home side trouble, sadly their shooting was woeful, especially speedy winger Banton, two shots nearly hitting unsuspecting spectators behind the goal.
His third shot was slightly different, he picked up the ball 30 yards out and rattled home a super goal. (1-1) The lead was restored within 4 minutes when some hapless defending let in Garner to slide the ball past Martin.(2-1)
Holmes almost added a third a couple of minutes later when Martin's clearance went straight to Holmes whose chip towards the unguarded goal went inches wide.
Apart from an early Davies blockbuster which went narrowly wide, the Dons bossed the majority of the half, a triple substitution after 55 minutes only made them better with evergreen Luke Chadwick showing his quality. The Dons had taken off Banton, who rarely was applauded by the home fans for his performance.
It wasn't long before the Dons levelled, from the spot after Humphrys brought down Carruthers.
Williams cooly scored the spot kick. (2-2)
A brief period of home pressure, before the Dons took control again and they almost snatched the lead when Bamford was centimetres away from scoring. The home side had a goal disallowed for offside by Wroe but held on to nick a point.
An entertaining game for the 9944 who were there.
Preston North End 2 MK Dons 2 Att 9944
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