A sterling display from the players yesterday, and a demonstration that we might just be cut out to compete in this league. Even when it gets dirty.
Preston played the physical game I was expecting and hassled us at every opportunity. They must have needed a Pantone colour chart to check the seven shades they kicked out of us, the white round bouncy thing clearly being an afterthought.
The Charlton team appeared to have listened to what Pards said earlier in the season about knowing when to keep things short and tidy and when to play it long. Iwelumo continued his role as an imposing target man whilst Sam and Thomas were constantly fed dangerous balls by Reid, who controlled the game.
Thomas in particular stood out - Preston simply couldn't cope with his trickery and pace. His display came as a surprise to me at a wet and windy Deepdale, and hopefully is a sign that Pards might finally be getting the best out of a gifted player who had up until now failed to show the attitude and fight we need this season.
Charlton's efforts were rewarded in first half injury time. Another run from Thomas and a touch from Iwelumo set up Zheng Zhi on the edge of the box, who cooly struck the ball into the bottom-right corner.
Preston cranked up the pressure in the second half, but despite some fantastic saves by an impressive Weaver, including an excellent point-blank stop, they never really looked like penetrating the defence.
Sodje was claiming everything with his head and Fortune was always on hand to tidy up - one particularly excellent last-man tackle in the first half standing out.
Mills was comfortable on the ball and quite happy to come forward into the attack with Sam on the wing. The only weak link appeared to be Basey, who looked vulnerable at times. However, this was only the fifth game for the Academy product and he will only improve from this experience.
Substitutions from both sides seemed to break up the flow of the match. Charlton's changes included the return of Matt Holland for the hard-working Semedo, Ambrose for Sam, and Varney for Reid.
Preston inflicted lengthy spells of pressure from numerous corners, but Charlton still looked dangerous on the break. This culminated in yet another injury time goal for the Addicks as Iwelumo's second assist fed Varney. The striker's pace was too much for a weary looking defence, and he confidently slotted under the advancing keeper.
So, 12 points from the last 4 matches, 0 conceded, 7 scored - including 6 in injury time! The team is now showing the consistency that's required to earn a promotion spot at this level. However, Tuesday's home tie against Sheffield United will be a real test.
Pie Watch - A poor display from the Deepdale catering crew I'm afraid - the Balti pie was as dry as a Glasgow pub at closing time and had barely been so much as introduced to a chicken. 2/10
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