North End strikers goal famine - shock
Accrington Stanley 0-1 PNE
Preston dominated the first half but it wasn't until shortly before half-time that an unmarked Brian O'Neil nodded the only goal of the game from a corner.
Both sides made the expected multiple changes to the teams during the game and it was Accrington who looked the livelier outfit in the second half when most of the action took place somewhere around the North End penalty area. PNE keeper Carlo Nash was kept busy and pulled off some good saves to preserve the dignity of the Championship side. On the whole, PNE spectators seem unimpressed.
Both sides made the expected multiple changes to the teams during the game and it was Accrington who looked the livelier outfit in the second half when most of the action took place somewhere around the North End penalty area. PNE keeper Carlo Nash was kept busy and pulled off some good saves to preserve the dignity of the Championship side. On the whole, PNE spectators seem unimpressed.
Manager Billy Davies points out that these are friendly games, meant to build match fitness and hone tactical awareness. While most spectators are happy to accept this, others think ten quid is a lot to pay to watch a training session.
Lancaster City 0-0 PNE
No goal-fest at the Giant Axe either. North End worked on their passing skills for much of the first half but gave the home keeper little exercise. Indeed it was Lancaster who almost took the lead when a shot hit the North End bar.
With wholesale changes to both teams being made at half-time it was largely up to the younger North End squad members to show their worth in the second half and, against spirited opponenents, they acquitted themselves well enough to finish the game all-square.