Taming of the Shrews

As easy as you like, Preston duly strolled to a 5-2 victory over relegation threatened Shrewsbury Town at a warm Deepdale. A Paul Gallagher hat trick in the second half confirmed the home sides superiority.
Apart from a couple of pieces of sloppy defending this could have been a far bigger victory. North End were on the front foot for the majority of the first half, the home side should have taken the lead half way through the half but Beavon's close range shot was blocked by keeper and a defender.
Ten minutes before half time the home side did lead, Gallagher whipped in a great cross, Holmes headed home. A couple of minutes later a Gallagher corner ended up at the feet of Wright whose volley sped home. The Shrews then pulled a goal back when Laird and King conspired to cock things up between them leaving Miller with the task of pulling a goal back. (2-1)
A lethargic start to theb second half by both sides until North End upped gear and scored twice within minutes, Beavon chased down a lost cause fired a ball across the face of goal, Gallagher lurking at the back post fired home. The fourth was a penalty, Browne being brought down in the box, Gallagher powered home the spot kick.
Shrewsbury reduced the arrears thanks to an error in midfierld by Browne, Parry's cross was perfect for Summerfield to head home at the back post.
Another mazy run by Browne was halted on the edge of the box illegally, Gallagher did the rest bottom left corner.
Little else happened in the remaining minutes as North End eased home for a very comfortable victory.

Preston Nort End 5 Shrewsbury Town 2 Att 9600