BLOCKBUSTER BRADY HAULS IN OLD RIVALS

PRESTON 2 BLACKBURN 2

ROBBIE BRADY served up something extra special for Preston – a sensational first strike of the season.

The 32-year-old former Burnley man (above) broke the hearts of rivals Blackburn when he pulled his side back into contention.

His left-foot blockbuster was added to minutes later by a scrappy Emil Riis goal to rub out Blackburn’s two-goal advantage before half-time.

When Sammie Szmodics hit his 22nd of the season and Sam Gallagher his third in six outings, Preston’s quest for a fourth successive win looked decidedly unlikely after 23 minutes.

Brady’s team-mate Liam Lindsay said: “We were relieved and so pleased for Robbie. He has that in his locker and we’re buzzing for him. He’s quality and he was pleased for both himself and for the team. You could see that in his reaction.”

Brady was only in the Preston line-up because of an injury to Brad Potts, and boss Ryan Lowe said: “It was his first full outing of the season, but he’s a model professional – ready, willing and delivering. The quality is there for all to see.”

Lindsay thinks Preston are stronger than last season, adding: “A top-six spot is a possibility for us.”

In contrast, Blackburn’s new boss John Eustace, who has a win, a loss, and now a draw to his name, is seeking to move away from the drop zone.

Eustace revealed that he is “looking no further than reaching 50 points as fast as we can,” adding: “A gap of six or seven points in front of the bottom clubs is not enough. Our short-term aim has to be getting safe.”

There is hope, with Szmodics in goal-scoring mood, Tyrhys Dolan proving a tricky presence up front, and Gallagher hitting form and the net after his four-month injury lay-off.

Eustace said: “Gally is so important for us. You can see and feel his presence. He’s going to play a massive part in the rest of the season.”