FanZone correspondent Steve Bradshaw gives the lowdown on Preston's opening day...
Liverpool old boy frustrates fans
The opening day of the 2009/10 season kicked off at the weekend, here
FanZone correspondent Steve Bradshaw gives the lowdown on Preston...
Phew!! That was a close one.
Not the best of games, but one point was enough to put us in a play-off place! With all the draws this weekend, I think this is an indication of how closely matched most of the Championship teams are this year.
I thought we had much the better of the first half against Bristol City. Preston created several early chances and we gave City little of the ball in front of goal. The new signings, Shumi and Parry impressed and I think Alan Irvine has done some good business there.
Concerns
Two worrying things. Firstly, we did miss Paul McKenna. Richard Chapelow struggled with injury last season and I hoped we would see the real Chappie this year, but he disappointed again with a lacklustre performance. He never really seems to have his heart in the game. I know he had a new midfield partner in Shumi and we have to give the partnership a chance, but there are already grumblings amongst the fans. Chappie, we need to see a bit more determination from you.
Secondly, Neil Mellor. The man is an enigma. I have absolutely no doubt he has a lot of talent and is capable of scoring many goals for us. But his performance was poor. Missed chances, poor passes and not linking up well with The Beast, Jon Parkin. And then the mistake that led to City's penalty and first goal, making a dreadful mess and losing the ball when it was easier to do the simple thing. The crowd wanted him off and he was shortly replaced by Chris Brown. I don't know what it is we need to light this man's fuse. If Irvo can find it, then Mellor can reach his undoubted potential. He needs a boost of confidence and then a goal or two may kick-start his season.
Perseverance
He needs to take a lead from Jon Parkin. Jon has not got the skills of Mellor, but he more than makes up for this with his sheer grit and determination. How he held it together through all the fouling from the City defenders I don't know. As last season The Beast comes with a reputation he does not deserve and referees tend not to give him the decisions he should get. In particular he was alleged to have fouled two defenders when they both tackled him from behind at the same time. The ref gave a free kick to City!!!! Jon persevered as usual and got his reward with a well taken goal.
Finally we showed the fighting spirit that was lacking and a penalty in the sixth minute of added time sent the fans home happy.
I hear that David Nugent is homesick. How we would love him back at Deepdale. He would make a great foil for Parkin. Any chance of this happening Mr Shaw?
Still think it's our season. Keep the faith.
Should Preston side David Nugent? Are Mellor and Parkin too similar? Join in the FanZone debate by filling in the feedback form below...
