Preston have had peaks and troughs all season and after four wins on the spin safety in the Championship was all but assured as they moved into the top half. Since then results have not gone their way.
Over the past three games only a late consolation by Callum Robinson at Cardiff is what Preston have to show. It sums up the season in that Preston have been competitive, defensively strong but attacking wise they have been average.
It is not something that is new with Beckford out and top signing May injured Preston have struggled with quality in the final third. Garner has tried but is having a difficult time in this division.
Forest caught Preston out on the break last night. They started a counter from a Pretson free kick and after a three on two situation Olivieira slotted past Lindgaard.
It was the only goal of the game. Garner was taken off at half time after his tenth booking of the season and it shows how lacking Preston are at this level when Doyle and Hughill came on as substitutes. They both failed to score again.
Grayson will have to address things at the top end of the pitch over the summer if Preston are to progress next season. It is not his strong point as a manager and hehas always relied on a strong defence. He has yet to win an away game from a losing position in his three years in charge.
Preston now travel to Bolton where the large travelling contingent will demand an improvement attacking wise over the next three games although Garner will be suspeended.