Injury Time Equaliser Saves North End

Preston showed too much repsect to Middlesborough in the first half as the visitors were allowed too much possession. They created a number of chances but nothing was clear cut with Lonergan having to make a couple of saves that you would expect.

The referee seemed to favour the visitors with the Boro back line able to hug Jon Parkin at every opportunity without giving a foul away. The referee then confirmed his colours when Boro were awarded a free kick before the break when Preston appeared to win the ball. The shot from the set piece was tame from O'Neill but Lonergan squirmed the shot and it trickled into the back of the net.

Preston came out stronger in the second half and were soon back in the game. Thye attacked on the break with Carter playing the ball out to the left where some neat work by Nolan and Wallace saw a ball floated into the box by the winger. Parkin headed goalwards and Jones parried the ball. Boro failed to clear and Parry raced in to tap home.

Preston should have taken control as they looked ot get on top but some poor defending by Collins allowed Boro to take the lead. Johnson who has a strong left foot was allowed around the outside by Collins and the youngster shot past Lonergan.

Prestton then grabbed a late equaliser in stoppage time. Wallace swung in a free kick for the unmarked Billy Jones to nod home to give Preston a point.