Since the return from the World Cup break Preston's season has gone downhill and rapidly. Apart from the first game back where Preston defeated Blackburn performances have been poor.
The last few weeks saw a timid approach in a televised FA Cup tie at home to Spurs where they conceded three without reply followed by a dismal home defeat to Bristol City.
Saturday was another pathetic performance in a local derby with a sell out away following for Preston. It was a given that this would be the toughest match of the season but the team showed no fight whatsoever matched by the management team who just sat in silence for the last twenty minutes of the game.
For the record Tella scored a hat trick as Burnley won 3-0. It was no surprise that Ryan Lowe who plays a wing back system without a recognised right wing back was always going to struggle against a quality and pacey winger. Browne was left chasing shadows for much of the game.
Changes at half time didn't have the desired impact as Lowe went for three up top. In reality Preston could have played seven up front but with no creativity in the side there was never going to be any propsect of a decent chance for the strikers.
There are troubling times ahead. Preston have a decent points tally from their early season form but the performances of late have been dire and warrant a relegation battle. Lowe is on borrowed time with the fans and needs results fast before things spiral.