Lancashire | Preston's unbeaten run ends

Portsmouth 1 - 0 Preston North End

Preston North End’s unbeaten run in the Championship came to an end as they fell narrowly to Portsmouth.

Author | Josh T

Stadium | Fratton Park

Andre Dozzell’s first-half strike put the hosts ahead shortly before half-time. He collected the ball from a short corner and fired in from distance, the shot taking a deflection that left Preston goalkeeper Daniel Iversen helpless. Earlier, Iversen had made an impressive save to deny Colby Bishop, while Josh Murphy and Zak Swanson squandered opportunities to extend Portsmouth’s lead in the second half.

Thierry Small and Michael Smith were the visitors’ closest threats, but Preston were unable to break down a resolute Pompey defence and suffered their first league defeat of the season.

The Lilywhites had collected seven points from their opening three matches, facing a Portsmouth side still seeking a second win since the opening day. John Swift went close with an early effort for the hosts, while Small curled just wide for Preston. Murphy’s pass into Bishop at pace was well saved by Iversen, but moments later Dozzell’s low drive, deflected off a defender, found the net.

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Despite enjoying over 60 per cent possession, Preston failed to find an equaliser for the first time this season. Both sides remain closely matched in the early table, sitting eighth and ninth with identical points, goals scored, and goals conceded.

Preston fans positive despite defeat

Mark Lee, a Preston fan, told us: “Nothing seemed to go our way in the second half, though most fans I’ve spoken to were pleased with the performance. It was not our day once more, another deflection. Of the three goals we have conceded this season, two have been deflections and one an own goal.

“The display was strong again. This is a difficult place to come and the fact we were so dominant after the break was a credit to the players and the way they approached it, even if nothing quite fell for us."

The Portsmouth perspective

John, a huge Portsmouth fan, told us: “We looked solid defensively, and I can’t remember our keeper having a save to make. A great three points and a fantastic way to go into the international week. Being 8th after 4 matches represents a decent start to the campaign.”