Preston North End battled to a 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion in a thrilling Sky Bet Championship clash, thanks to Emil Riis’s crucial equalizer. The Dane’s fifth goal of the season cancelled out Karlan Grant’s 13th-minute opener for the Baggies, ensuring a share of the spoils in a game that lived up to its pre-match billing.
West Brom, arriving with a league-high nine draws, started brightly. Their attacking threat was evident early on. Grant, in the 10th minute, unleashed a powerful 25-yard shot that forced a stunning save from Preston’s debutant goalkeeper, Dai Cornell. Cornell, starting in place of the suspended Freddie Woodman, proved his worth with several key interventions throughout the match.
However, Grant’s skill eventually prevailed. He expertly chipped Cornell in the 13th minute, capitalizing on a well-weighted through ball from Tom Fellows to put West Brom ahead. This was Grant’s third goal of the season and a well-deserved reward for the Baggies’ early pressure.
Preston responded with increasing urgency as the first half progressed. Josh Bowler tested West Brom goalkeeper Alex Palmer with a shot from outside the box in the 26th minute, only to see it comfortably gathered. Eight minutes later, Bowler came even closer, guiding Sam Greenwood’s pinpoint cross goalward, but Mason Holgate produced a vital goal-line clearance to keep West Brom in the lead.
The second half saw Preston’s determination intensify. Ali McCann’s header, from a Greenwood corner, was almost an equalizer, but unfortunately, it was deflected by Riis himself. Greenwood’s set-piece delivery continued to cause havoc, forcing Torbjorn Heggem to make a crucial block. The relentless pressure finally yielded results in the 55th minute. Riis, cleverly maneuvering past Holgate, unleashed a shot into the far corner, a superb finish assisted by Greenwood’s creativity.
The remainder of the match was a tense affair. Greenwood, on loan from Leeds, orchestrated many of Preston’s attacks. He tested Palmer again with a stinging free-kick in the 79th minute, but neither side could find a winning goal. Late in the game, a quickly taken free-kick created a chance for West Brom substitute Jayson Molumby, but Ali McCann’s last-ditch tackle prevented what would have been a decisive goal for the visitors.
The final whistle signaled a well-earned point for both teams. While Preston will be pleased to have avoided defeat, West Brom will likely feel frustration at not capitalizing on their early lead. The match showcased the attacking prowess of both sides and highlighted the importance of strong defensive displays and a touch of good fortune in a closely fought contest within the competitive Sky Bet Championship. Post-match comments from both managers are awaited.
