Preston Maintain Unbeaten Pre-Season

Last updated : 23 July 2018 By @pnemad

North End matched their opponents in a game that became fiesty in certain moments especially for a friendly game although the game never got out of hand.

Preston switched off early on and were punished as Noble played a free kick through to Arnautovic who was head and shoulders above anyone on the field in terms of ability.

The West Ham striker had found himself in a gaping whole in the centre of Preston's defence with Clarke and Davies nowhere to be seen. Maxwell rushed out but Arnautovic had all the time in the world to slot home.

Preston were not deterred by the early set back and should have equalised when a curling ball into the box was met by Moult. The striker had a free header but the result was not pretty with the ball sailing over.

Ben Pearson went down injured for a number of minutes which was concerning. He managed to continue playing but then minutes later he was taken off. Post game it was revealed that he had suffered winding and will be fit for tonight's game at Burnley.

North End equalised from a set piece as Clarke powered home a header past the West Ham keeper who flapped and was unable to prevent the ball hitting the net.

Preston were worthy of being level until Arnautovic struck just before the break. He was allowed half a yard of space in the box to turn. He swivelled and with his left foot curled a shot into the bottom corner.

Substitutes were made after the break including Barkhuizen who hobbled off injured. He was assisted by two staff in leaving the field. Bodin replaced him.

Moult missed another gilt edged chance before Preston finally equalised. A long crossfield ball found Bodin. He brought the ball down exquisitely with his left foot. His marker could not react and Bodin curled the ball home with a fantactic finish.

Neither side could find a winner but Preston matched the visitors with a number of players getting the majority of the game under their belts. Preston now face Burnley at home in the penultimate pre-season game.