North End started last season slowly really only getting into any sort of form after a defeta to Sheffield Wednesday in October. It seems a similar pattern is emerging this season although it is early days.
Simon Grayson is not suddenyl going to reinvent the wheel. In his three and a half years of management, his approach has been cautious, hold what we have and then bring on attacking substitutes on the hour mark.
Nothing has changed except for Ben Pringle being the main addition tot he squad after last season. He started outwide with Gallgher on the other wing as Preston started with a 4-4-2.
The problem with the formation was that without Pearson or Welsh there is no ball winner in midfield and Fulham, who are by no means expected to gain automatic promotion, controlled the game for large parts.
The first goal came from a ball that should have been cleared in the box. It might be harsh but early last season Pickford saved us on a number of occasions and he may well have cleared the danger on Saturday. Instead, Aluko managed to score from close range.
Fulham thought they had doubled their lead before the break when Matt Smith headed home. He was adjudged to have pushed his opponent although it was a tough call.
The visitors did double their advantage on the break. Fulham broke out and after Lindegaard made a save, Matt Smith tapped home the rebound for a deserved lead.
Preston then went to a 4-3-3 formation with Beckford and Robinson in support. The pace certainly helped the home side and they soon pulled a goal back. Beckford fizzed in a right wing cross for Robinson to head home.
The home side went on the attack and Beckford had the ball in the net. His header was ruled out for offside but it was clear that the ball to him was not a forward ball. It was a wrong call but a point would have been unjust.
Grayson needs to think hard over team selection and formation with Derby coming to Deepdale on Tuesday. County have had an equally miserable start to the season.