Preston North End 2 Tranmere Rovers 1

Match summary (from the Town End)

Daniel Mayor - wing wizard

North End matched a strong Tranmere team keen to attack with long balls deep into Preston territory throughout. Preston lost Parry late on.he earned a second yellow card for grappling too vigorously with Tranmere right winger Atkins, who caused problems all day.

Preston spluttered at times, with Tranmere disrupting and defending with effficiency and energy. Tranmere, while energetic, lacked real quality in attack, however, which gave Preston a reprieve. Preston deflected a unrelenting aerial assault throughout. Carlisle was an immense presence alongside composed McLean. Together they deflected Tranmere's searching passes and pace.

In attack, Preston flattered and were, on the whole, stifled. Proctor's physical presence unwittingly brought him to the attention of the official, receiving a yellow card for repeat-foul-play against the 20 year-old Preston forward.

Tranmere's endeavour earned Baxter's (60 mins) equalizer to Preston's Alexander's (37 mins) opening spot kick, tucked into the bottom left with Tranmere's Von Williams lunging haplessly in the other direction.

Tranmere pushed on for more glory. Preston manager Phil Brown replaced the soon-to-be-sent-off Proctor, with skilful winger Mayor. As Tranmere pushed on, Preston rebounded on the break. With Tranmere's legions marooned in Preston territory, Hume found space down the right. Hume moved onto Coutts. Coutts gained yardage, and the ball was move swiftly from right to left. Mayor, cutting in from the left wing, onto a perfect through ball, calmly slotted the ball to the left of 'keeper Von Williams.

Preston survived plenty of game attack from Tranmere. Defending well for the remaining 15 minutes to seal the 3 points.

Significantly, for Preston, a discount ticket offer had brought in 17,200, including almost 2000 Birkenhead fans. The resolute defence that confirmed the win was huge. If only to build and retain momentum for the recovery of this wounded and rehabilitated football club.

Preston boast a 6, 1 and 1 record, and sit in 5th position in England's 3rd league, 4 points behind the league leaders. Had Tranmere won today, They would now sit ahead of Preston.