We’re making errors we weren’t making last season, admits Preston boss Neil

Posted Sunday, September 02, 2018 by PA

Preston manager Alex Neil was left frustrated after watching his side throw away a two goal lead to draw 2-2 with Bolton at Deepdale.

The Lilywhites raced into a two-goal advantage after just 16 minutes thanks to strikes from Callum Robinson and Alan Browne.

But Gary Parkinson’s men hit back before the break through Sammy Ameobi and Pawel Olkowski to earn a share of the spoils and leave Neil unhappy at having to settle for a point.

He said: “We go 2-0 up, we have chances to make it three through Brandon Barker. They make a block in defence and 30 seconds later we make a error and the ball ends up in the back of the net.

“That goal knocked us, and lifted Bolton, and from there they looked the more likely to score.

“I felt the momentum of the game was going in their favour, so at half-time I looked to change it with subs. I hoped it would make us more solid, with an attacking threat, but I think for both teams the second half was a bit of a stalemate.

“We are making errors that we weren’t making last season and when you’re not in control that makes a problem.

“Brandon has gained experience, but he is going to have to learn about working for the team because we know we have to work hard as a unit to do well this season.”

Preston looked sharp from the start as Robinson gave the home side the lead after 11 minutes. Manchester City loanee Barker seized on a misplaced pass in midfield and slipped Robinson through. He sidestepped the onrushing Ben Alnwick to calmly slot home from inside the area.

Robinson was involved for Preston’s second goal after 16 minutes as his chipped cross was only half cleared, with Alan Browne swivelling to volley home the loose ball from 20 yards out.

Bolton responded quickly and skipper David Wheater almost found a way back into the game after 27 minutes, but his header from a corner was gathered by Declan Rudd at the second attempt.

The visitors finally got their goal six minutes before the break, with Ameobi’s long-range drive deceiving Rudd and flying into the bottom corner.

Phil Parkinson’s side were level two minutes later as Bolton counter-attacked on Preston and Olkowski found himself in space inside the area to hammer a powerful strike in off the underside of the bar.

Bolton looked strong in the second half and had a chance to take the lead after 66 minutes, but Josh Magennis’ close-range effort was deflected over the bar by Ben Pearson, with Alan Browne making a brave block from Jason Lowe from the resulting corner.

With both teams having to settle for a draw there were ugly scenes after the final whistle, with Pearson shown a red card after an altercation with two Bolton players.

Bolton boss Parkinson said: “We showed character today, real character. We’ve seen a terrific and spirited performance.

“Sammy Ameobi was excellent, he scored one, Pac (Olowski) got the other and they both really produced for us today.

“All over the pitch I was pleased with spirit and determination, but also the quality on the ball, particularly in midfield.

“I think the squad is stronger this year, we’ve got more players with Championship experience.

“We are pleased with the points return so far and, when you lose your unbeaten run as we did against Sheffield United last weekend, it’s important that we responded in the right way today.”