Derby County Vs Preston North End Match Preview
Coca-Cola Championship Tuesday 16th February 2010
With the local derby versus Blackpool now out of the way until next year at least, North End can begin to concentrate on their playoff push starting with Derby County on Tuesday night.
Darren Ferguson's side managed to move up a place to 11th despite only managing a draw on Saturday. Nevertheless, such a move is at least a step in the right direction leaving the Lilywhites 7 points away from a playoff berth.
Tuesday's bout with The Rams will kick-start a tricky week for North End with a trip to St James' Park yet to come at the weekend. North End can take some confidence in at least being able boast a mini run of two games without defeat, the Rams, though, will be buoyed by the home win over Newcastle at the weekend which made it three home wins on the spin.
Form
Derby County Home Form: LLLWWW
Preston North End Away Form: LLLLWL
Overall
Derby County: WWLWDW
Preston North End: WWLLWD
Previous Meetings
The Rams' visit to Deepdale this season resulted in a 0-0 stalemate in what became a frustrating night at Deepdale. In a week where North End were desperate to pick up maximum points from their two games, Alan Irvine's side drew a blank back in September.
Last season's trip to Pride Park, however, was an eventful one with all four goals coming in the first half hour. Rob Hulse put the home side in front on 8 minutes before Callum Davidson levelled with a spot kick on 21. Former Liverpool man Neil Mellor had North End ahead 8 minutes later only to see Jordan Stewart equalise with a stunning effort on 32 minutes to see the points shared.
Team News
Latest acquisition Tom Williams is set to make his debut at left-back after signing on loan from Peterborough on Monday.