Grayson’s joy at Jor dropping fightback
PRESTON boss Simon Grayson saluted Jordan Hugill after his two-goal heroics salvaged a point away to Aston Villa.
Two first-half goals from Albert Adomah appeared to have put Villa on the winning track but they went off the boil in the second half.
Grayson said: “I was critical of the players at half-time but Jordan was one in the first half who did okay for us and second half he showed what he’s capable of and that’s why he’s vital for us.
“We did say that the third goal was vital and crucial because having come to games at Villa Park.
“I know it can be a little anxious at times and then there were two goals from Jordan and we deserved it.”
Before the game there was a moving tribute in memory of Graham Taylor who was twice manager of Aston Villa between 1987 and 1900 and 2002 and 2003.
Watched by Taylor’s family, former Villa favourite Steve Staunton laid a floral wreath on the centre spot.
Villa took the lead in the 22nd minute when Jack Grealish found Gabby Agbonlahor who seemed to lose control as he tangled with Chris Maxwell and the ball ran for Adomah to tap in.
In the 36th minute Adomah worked a shooting position only to be brought down in the area by Aiden McGeady.
Despite strong protests referee Andy Madley awarded a penalty which the Ghanaian converted with ease.
Preston reduced the gap in the 64th minute when Hugill collected a loose ball and fired a 20-yard shot past keeper Sam Johnstone.
And in the 76th minute McGeady cut in from the left and Hugill headed home his perfect cross.
Villa boss Steve Bruce insists he will not pick Ross McCormack until the striker’s “attitude towards training improves” after he was left out yesterday.
He said: “In my opinion he is not fit enough to play and he will not play unless his attitude towards training and missing training improves.
“There has been too much indiscipline here at Villa and I will not put up with it on my watch.”