Player verdicts

CHRISTY PYM

Beaten by a six-yard header after staying on his goalline, but made some fine saves with his feet 7

FRANKIE KENT

Looked strong and positive throughout. Won many key duels in his own area. His passing was erratic though .................................................... 8

NATHAN THOMPSON

Found the mobility of the Preston forwards a problem at times, even after switching from the centre to the right of a back three ...................... 7

JOSH KNIGHT

Lost his man for the Preston goal and rarely looked comfortable on the left of a back three. One good block early on ..................................... 5

JOE WARD

A big disappointment. Little offensive input and struggled to keep tabs on a dashing Preston wing-back .......................................................... 5

DAN BUTLER

Clearly determined to relish every minute of the Championship. Whipped in a couple of dangerous crosses late on ................................................... 7

JORGE GRANT

The key midfielderwas sloppy on the ball throughout on his return to the side .................. 5

OLIVER NORBURN

It was tough playing two v three in central midfield so Norburn wasn’t as effective in this game. Great attitude and workrate though ....... 6

HARRISON BURROWS

Knocked off the ball far too easily in the first half when he struggled to find space. Substituted midway through the second half ........................ 5

SIRIKI DEMBELE

One brilliant dribble was ruined by a weak shot when the goal was at his mercy. Tried hard, but often surrounded and fouled. Taken off after cramping up which was a disappointment ........ 7

JONSON CLARKE-HARRIS

Looked short of energy after a couple of strong 90-minute displays. Never on top of his marker and didn’t get a sight of goal until the 95th and final minute ........................................................ 5

Subs used Sammie Szmodics

(for Burrows, 66 mins) Played with energy, but a poor touch and a scuffed shot ruined his chance of an equaliser. Great pass at the death almost saved the day .... 6

Jack Marriott (for Dembele, 66 mins)

His commitment and attitude can be guaranteed. Played a lovely one-two with Clarke-Harris, but then shot wide from 18 yards ............................. 6

Joel Randall (for Knight, 77 mins) ...................... 6 Set up Szmodics for his opportunity. He can clearly play and is definitely one to watch if he can get up speed in the Championship ..................... 6