After defeat at QPR, Preston returned to their form of sharing the spoils. This time they drew a blank in a goalless and somewhat uninspiring performance against Derby.
Barkhuizen returned to the starting line up alongside Riis in a forward position but North End lacked any enthusiasm and vigour. In fact they only had one real opportunity all game.
Derby were dominant in the first half and in reality Preston must be thankful the visitors have a points deduction otherwise North End would really be looking over thier shoulders at the relegation places.
The visitors had three attempts which were all saved by Iversen in the first half. The keeper has continued his form from last season and is certainly earning his wage.
Whilst Preston were lucky to still be in the game they did improve after the break. The one main chance for Preston came when Riis was played through on goal but he could only fire against the oncoming keeper.
It would have been undeserved had Preston won. Preston are a side that will finish in the bottom third given the form since the start of the season. They may get embroiled in a relegation battle as they struggle to win games.
There is a big few weeks ahead. Coventry will be a challenge and the Liverpool game is a one off but fixtures againat Blackpool, Luton and Forest could determine whether Preston are in for a long hard winter.