The Lilywhites’ 3-1 defeat to seventh placed Fulham at the weekend was their chance to stake a claim for promotion – it leaves them nine points behind sixth place.
Preston’s Jordan Hugill celebrates scoring their second goal
After Fulham cut short Preston North End’s five match unbeaten run in the Championship with a comprehensive 3-1 victory, they not only moved four points clear of PNE, but all but ended their top six hopes.
With a visit to Derby on the horizon, there is no denying that Simon Grayson’s side have had an excellent season and look well on course to finish in the top 10, even if they will be disappointed to see their unlikely play-off dream fade after slipping nine points away.
Preston have upset the apple cart somewhat this season, with many expecting them to finish between 14th and 18th, however they’ve proved their doubters wrong – and in some style.
Currently sitting in ninth, Preston have also impressed in the FA Cup this year against Arsenal, where it took an 89th minute goal for PNE to lose 2-1 at Deepdale against one of the best sides in the country.
Preston manager Simon Grayson celebrates at full time
While against Derby County in their next Championship fixture they can look to cement a top 10 place, next season could be one that sees Preston do battle in the play-offs once more.
As Grayson told the BBC after the Fulham match, the Whites are on a different level to his PNE side, but his spirited Lilywhites are capable of stepping up in the not too distant future. If Preston can keep key players and strengthen accordingly, there’s no reason why they can’t replicate the Craven Cottage outfit.
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