Sean St Ledger showed why he is an asset in both penalty areas by coolly slotting the ball past Paddy Kenny to give North End the lead. However, a Brian Howard equaliser immediately after the interval means that the tie is now delicately poised heading into the second leg at Bramall Lane on Monday evening. A dominant second-half display from the Blades nearly saw North End go behind but thanks to resolute defending and the heroics of Andy Lonergan, North End still have it all to play for.
If there was any way that could describe Sheffield United’s performance in the first leg on Friday night is that, too put it politely, it was Blackwell-esque. There were many similarities for the eye to see from that of the Leeds United performance that knocked Preston out at the semi-final stage three years ago. Blackwell’s 4-5-1 formation stifled North End’s midfield and stopped them for playing and never gave the Lilywhites time on the ball. Sound familiar?
Consequently, after being unable to give themselves a distinct advantage heading into the second leg, Preston now have to put in a performance in South Yorkshire to have any chance of heading to Wembley. No easy feat.
Previous Meetings at Bramall Lane
Preston’s last win at Bramall Lane dates back to the late 70s after a 1-0 win on Saturday 18th November 1978. Since then, North End have failed in their last 12 attempts to displace the Blades on their own turf. However, records are there to be broken and, if done so on Monday night, Preston will be heading to Wembley for a playoff final for the first time since the defeat to Wycombe in 1994.
Team News
With very little options available to him, Alan Irvine isn’t expected to make wholesale changes for the away leg on Monday. After an abject performance from Neil Mellor, Irvine may be tempted to start with Chris Brown upfront alongside Jon Parkin whilst Barry Nicholson will be knocking on the door for a recall into midfield.