It seems a long time ago that Preston were sitting in the top six with the best defensive record in the division. The last six weeks have been horrendous for Preston culminating in a sizeable defeat to an Ipswich team which are not likely to trouble the top few.
Everybody knows that Preston have been hit with injuries making selection difficult. Neil was always walking a thin tightrope. As the season started Clarke was only set to return in January whilst Boyle and Davies were wholly inexperienced at Champiosnhip level.
It is a testament to Davies that he has stepped up at this level but Preston were always short at the back even before injuires hit. This is part of the present problem and I am sure Neil would love to have another experienced head at the back to get through the next few games.
The squad is young and confidence has clearly drifted downwards. The formation doesn't help when confidence is low. The full backs are left exposed and there isn't enough cover which was exposed by Ipswich.
Preston continued with the 4-2-3-1 formation but due to Maguire's injury there was a reshuffle. O'Connor started at the back whilst Huntington returned alongside Boyle. Welsh anchored with Pearson whilst Johnson was pushed further forward with Browne and Barkhuizen supporting Hugill.
Pearson had the best chance for Preston in the first half but couldn't convert and after that it was grim for the 400 or so travelling fans as Ipswich took charge.
The first goal came on the stroke of half time. Waghorn scored direct from a free kick. Some may point the finger at Maxwell. If the keeper had stayed in the same position it would have been an easy catch. He deciided to move allowing an easy goal.
McGoldrick added a second after half time and Preston's left hand side decided to capitulate. Celina scored the third and to concede three goals against Ipswich is a pretty poor effort no matter who was playing.
Johnson did hit the bar but injuries cannot excuse what was a poor reslt for North End. There are now two weeks to take stock and get some players healthy. A change in tactics may also be needed to stop the inxperienced playes being exposed.
Preston need to turn this round before they get sucked into a battle to stay in the division. Bolton on Sky are next up and the Trotters are fast improving at this level so it will be a difficult game.
Things have changed drastically over the past six weeks and upcoming suspensions will also hit Preston along with the lengthy injury list but this cannot be used as an excuse.