This is a biggy classic six pointer, win it we go to within 2 points of the O's with a game in hand however it is also a tough game against a side who have performed wonders this season although three defeats on the bounce may have taken the wind out of their sails. Mooney still banging g in goals for fun and new signing Dagnall has started well, however they seem to be struggling at keeper level with Jalal now between the sticks. We should be primed and ready for this one, no injuries or suspension for the home side, could be interesting, as for me I'm in the TFS for a meal before the game thanks to my god daughter pulling some strings.
Reports have it that NE's football has improved considerably woth the addition of Gallagjer and Wiseman. Judging by the BBC's stats, NE have dominated games from kick off to final whistle, including the loss to Forest. Ley's hope this happens tomorrow.
Most of the players, and a lot of the crowd, would not have had the pleasure of seing a true master of attacking football. The young players of today (Josh Brownhill) should reflect on Tom Finney's perseverance to be the best he could be, and not have their heads turned by agents. Expect a big crowd today. And an 8-0 drubbing of the 'O's as on that day in '58 against Birmingham.
15 minutes from the end of this contest came the moment when North End had the perfect chance to say goodbye to Sir Tom Finney, a quality cross from substitute Lee Holmes saw the diving Kevin Davies head wide with the goal at his mercy, with the miss went North Ends last chance to take all three points against Leyton Orient. An immaculate minute's silence, wreaths presented by both clubs to Sir Tom's son and applause on seven were worthy tribute to the great man The first half wasn't great and not surprisingly North End were very slow to start, Orient should have been ahead after five minutes but Mooney's close range effort was well saved by Rudd, it wasn't great defending by the home side. North End started to come to terms with the visitors and started to play some decent football, Craig Davies being denied by keeper Jakupovic, he also looked to have been brought down in the area but Mr Whitestone waved play on. Slightly against the run of play Orient took the lead close when more poor defending by the home side left Baudry with time to pick his spot following a free kick. (0-1) The second half was a one sided affair as North End tried to rescue the game although Mooney missed a glorious chance to extend the lead when shooting high and wide when a pass to an unmarked colleague may have been a better option. Just after the hour mark North End levelled from the penalty spot, when Baudrey bundled over Craig Davies, may have been harsh but as the ref had given us sod all all afternoon, it was gratefully accepted by Garner who beat the keeper from the spot. (1-1) North End piled on the pressure but the Davies miss was the only real chance they had, honours even. Spent the afternoon in the executive box, very refined atmosphere, no swearing was heard, can't be doing with that. Preston North End 1 Leyton Orient 1 Att 13440
Have yo read Russell Slade's remark's that Davies did a 'horizontal dive'. I think he was watching a different game to you...in his imagination! NE had 17 shots but only one goal. They must learn that close does not count. Also, another goal conceded from a set play.
