Crystal Palace Vs Preston North End
Coca-Cola Championship Saturday 7th March 2009
Preston's travel sickness persisted to be a problem for Alan Irvine in midweek as the Lilywhites were sent back from the East Midlands without a single point for their efforts. The last thing North End need is another tricky away fixture in quick succession but that is exactly what they have this coming Saturday. A trip to Selhurst Park to take on Neil Warnock's Crystal Palace beckons for North End who are looking to make it just four wins on the road this term.
Palace however are languishing in the mire of lower mid-table mediocrity and it could be argued that they have nothing to play for. If North End are going to pick up three points away from Deepdale then it is most likely to be a team in a similar position to Palace.
Palace are on a run of just two wins in their last twelve matches including no wins in their last four. A win for North End would see them continue their chase for promotion stop them looking over their collective shoulders momentarily. A Palace victory could see the Lilywhites drop out of the play-off places should results elsewhere go against them.
Previous Meetings
When Palace visited Deepdale back in August, the South London side were sent packing after a 2-0 win for North End. Midfield duo Barry Nicholson and Richard Chaplow got themselves on the score sheet to seal the win.
Last season's trip to Selhurst, back in November 2007, saw North End emerge point-less from the encounter despite taking the lead. Youl Mawene's goal after 36 minutes was shortly followed by a quick double salvo from before half-time from the two Clint's, Morrison and Hill.
In total North End have visited Selhurst Park to play Palace 20 times but have only won 4 times compared to the Eagles' 12 victories.
Team News
Preston will not only be without the injured Chris Sedgwick but will have to do without the services of Paul McKenna and Jon Parkin who are both suspended. Youl Mawene should be fit to return after sitting out of the defeat to Forest in midweek.