It was over forty years since the last time Preston gaced United so hopefully another forty won't pass before we meet again but if Preston can continue to build on last night's performance then there is every chance they may move out of League One this season.
Grayson adopted his usual tactic against better opposition which is to sit up and soak the pressure for an hour before trying to nick a winner towards the end. It worked against Norwich but this time Preston just scored too early.
North End lined up in a 3-5-2 formation with Stuckmann back in goals for the cup tied Johnstone. Wright, Clarke and Huntington played atthe back with Humphrey and Laird as wing backs in what appeared to be a back five at times.
Gallagher played alongside Welsh and Kilkenny ina tight knit midfield with Davies and Garner combining up front. Havind said all that the first half was devoid of any action with only a Paul Gallagher effort from range of any note.
The game plan appeared to be working. Preston stifled United who for a team sitting in third in the Premier League lacked any creativity in midfield with Rooney sitting too deep to have any influence. Falcao looked lost and the only real outlet was Valencia with his pace.
The second half started well for Pretson - too well - as four minutes in Laird burst down the left firing across a shot. The ball took a slight defelction off Valencia which meant De Gea couldn't fully get behind the ball as it squeezed under him for a goal.
The plan had worked ahead of schedule and Preston had to sit tight and try to hold out. United had time to recuperate and bringing on Young for Falcao changed the game as his pace and energy urged United forward.
Young was free on the right and played onside. He laid a ball back across the box where a shot came in. It took a deflection and past Stuckmann. Debates then continued afterwards as to whether Rooney who avoided playing the ball was offside and interfering in play. The goal was given.
United then had the impetus and snatched a second when Fellaini headed towards goal. There may have been a slight push on Clarke but Stuckmann could only save with his feet playing the ball back to Fellaini to convert.
Pretson made a triple change. Davies was on a yellow card and was warend for another late challenge by referee Phil Dowd who that apart seemed to favour his Premier League acquaintances in the minor scuffles especially when Garner appeared to be brought down through on goal.
Robinson returned coming off the bench along with Reid and Wiseman. The on loan Villa man was gifted a ball by the United defence but his shot from range was easily saved.
The match was then sealed late on as Rooney was put through. He was goign away from goal but Stuckmann rish out and slid to tackle the attacker. Rooney cleverly played the ball 5 yards forward before the teackle with no intention of reaching the ball. Replays were inconclusive but it appeared Rooney could have easily continued his run preferring to leave his leg and dive for the penalty.
Dowd, a Premier League official, had been conned. Roy Hodgson backed up Rooney but what else would you expect from someone whose hopes are pinned on Rooney. The striker converted the penalty and the game was over.
Preston were not dispirited nor were they outclassed across the board. Grayson said that the decisions inthe build up to each of the goals could have been differnt on another night but did not want to complain too much which I think is the right attitude.
Compared to recent Premier League opposition United were average but as with their season they seem to be able to find that winning touch. North End now move to three important league games at home to Scunthorpe and Walsall before an away game at Oldham before th emonth is out.