Preston Through On Penalties

Last updated : 28 August 2019 By @pnemad

Preston let a two goal lead slip but still managed to squeeze through into the Third Round as they won a penalty shootout 5-4 as Tom Eaves from Hull was the only player to have his penalty saved.

Alex Neil peroplexed many supporters with his team selection. He again picked a side without a recognsied striker but more unusually had a starting eleven without any recognised full backs.

Alan Browne filled in at right back while Josh Ginnelly (remember him?) played at left back despite being signed as a flourishing right winger. The latter was involved in the action in the firts minute bringing down an attacker for a free kick.

Preston did actually start the brighter of the two sides and had an excellent first half. Huntington headed home a Browne set piece to open the scoring.

The lead was then doubled as Ledson played Barkhuizen in on goal. His shot was blocked but Harrop who had an impressive game slotted home the rebound.

There were numerous other chances which Preston failed to take and Hull were allowed back in the game before the break. The referee awarded a penalty when Da Silva Lopes was adjudged to have been tripper by Browne. It seemed like a harsh call and more like the attacker tripping over his own feet at times.

Magennis converted the spot kick and in the second period the visitors piled ont he pressure. There were a number of chances which Preston kept out until the last kick of the game when Bowen equalised.

The game went straight to penatlies where North End converted all five spot kicks to seal their place in the next round as Hull could only finish four.

The night really was a game of two distinct halves with Preston's makeshift defence coming under real pressure at times. Some players who have been out of action were given game time and it appears Neil is using the Cup very much for squad rotation.