The two Lancashire clubs go head-to-head at Deepdale on Saturday teatime.
Until last weekend, Preston were enjoying steady and serene Championship progress – all that changed on Saturday, as the Lilywhites gained headlines for all the wrong reasons at Hillsborough.
Strikers Jermaine Beckford and Eoin Doyle were sent off for fighting with each other in the closing stages of the 2-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday, with both fined and suspended as a result.
Preston North End manager Simon Grayson.
Hoping to capitalise on Preston’s recent misfortune are their Lancashire rivals Blackburn, who are embarking upon a mini-revival. Owen Coyle’s side are unbeaten in three matches – a run that includes a win at league leaders Newcastle – and have climbed out of the bottom three as a result.
The Key Battle – Tom Clarke vs Sam Gallagher
The Preston skipper has had to draw on all of his leadership skills to keep the squad together after tempers flared last weekend, but he will have to ensure he also focuses on his defensive duties.
Southampton loanee Gallagher has scored seven times for Rovers this season and his goals will be vital as Rovers bid to avoid the drop.
Sam Gallagher scores the second goal for Blackburn Rovers
Last Meeting:
Preston came out on top in April’s meeting between these two sides at Ewood Park, with Jordan Hugill’s winner earning North End a 2-1 win.
The Lilywhites also have the historical edge in this fixture, with 40 wins to Blackburn’s 31.
Recent league form – most recent last:
Preston – WLWDDL
Blackburn – LDLWWD
Tom Clarke of Preston North End
Who’s the ref?
Normally a Premier League referee, Kevin Friend drops into the Championship for just the second time this season for Saturday evening’s match.
Friend is yet to show a red card this season, and has brandished 55 yellow cards in his 12 games to date.
What time is kick off?
The Lancashire battle begins at 5.30pm.
Where can I watch it?
Sky Sports 1 are showing this clash, with the build-up starting at 5.15pm.
Odds
Preston – 21/20
Draw – 12/5
Blackburn – 13/5
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