Some one once said you can only beat the crap that comes to play against you. Unfortunately, Preston can't even do that anymore as they sunk to a less than impressive Shrewsbury side.
On a positive note there was some consistency with selection. There was only one change with Monakana dropping to the bench for Beavon who played out of position on the right wing.
The first half was lifeless except for one moment of magic. The pitch was somewhat of an improvement from last week after no snowfall but still not conducive to passing. Beavon's 25 yard strike was befitting of a game at a much higher level than this one.
North End started the second half well. They were positive but squandered chances. The game could have been put beyond doubt but that is always the way when you are struggling for confidence.
Shrewsbury came back into the game with what seemed like their first attack. They moved the ball down the left and the linesman failed to spot the attacker in an offside position. In any event he managed to play a bal in the box. No one tracked the runner for twenty yards and he fired home from inside the box. Stuckmann got two hands on the ball but could not parry the shot away although some may question whether he could have done better.
The game looked to be heading for a draw when Shrewsbury raided down the right and young Davies pulled down the attacker. Again Davies out of position at left back with Buchanan on the bench. Richards converted the penalty and Prestona re now 11 league games without a win at home.
Westley came up with more stats and excuses at home. The crowds are dwindling and there is very little support left for someone who has a 26% win record in his year at the helm. I am uncertain but he must now rank amongst one of the worst performing manager's in the history of the club.