Preston North End scored a stunning equaliser deep into stoppage time to rescue a point against Norwich City in a fiery Championship encounter on Saturday. Will Keane, who had recently returned from injury, scored the crucial goal just six minutes into added time, ensuring that the match ended in a 1-1 draw at Deepdale. This outcome meant disappointment all round for the teams as they looked to start picking up crucial points in the league.
Norwich City rallied, with Jovon Makama putting them in front early in the game. He scored in the 84th minute to give his side a dramatic late lead. With just a few minutes left, it looked like Norwich were going to take all three points. It seems like Preston’s persistence has ultimately paid off. Keane, who replaced Lewis Dobbin as a substitute, powered the ball home with a header from the edge of the six-yard box into the bottom corner of the net to equalise and send home supporters into delirium.
Match Overview
The final—a No. 4 vs. No. 5 match-up—started with both teams playing a bit reserved as they played for the upper hand. Preston did very well to create a number of opportunities, with Josh Harrop crafting a superb chance for Matt Smith right before the hour mark. Smith took one look at that gaping goal and just couldn’t finish. Norwich’s keeper, Kovacevic, produced a great save to deny Smith from the angle.
It was in the dying minutes of the game that Norwich finally found a significant breakthrough. Makama’s goal meant that they were on course to pick up three important points. Preston’s determination and fighting spirit shone through as they pushed for an equalizer, culminating in Keane’s late goal.
Managerial Reactions
Norwich City manager Philippe Clement did not mince his words after the match. His biggest lament was how his squad allowed the goal so late in the match.
“I think it’s the cruellest scenario you can have in football – to lose points, not in the dying minutes, but in the dying seconds of the game.” – Philippe Clement
Clement’s sentiments were echoed by Preston’s assistant manager, Stuart McCall, who praised his players for their resilience and highlighted the positive emotions following Keane’s goal.
“Naturally, they’re feeling very good, especially the lads who were involved in the goal.” – Stuart McCall
Preston’s manager Paul Heckingbottom shared McCall’s enthusiasm and noted that the team’s performance demonstrated their character and ability to fight until the end.
Player Highlights
Will Keane’s late winner was special, not just for its timing. He had missed the entire previous season on the sidelines due to a serious injury. At 32 years old, his experience and leadership were invaluable for Preston as they battled back into contention during the match.
The victory was a collective effort from Preston’s squad, which included Daniel Iversen, who made crucial saves throughout the match to keep his team competitive. The combination between Andrew Hughes and Matt Smith was key in developing opportunities and emphasized their chemistry on the field.
Preston, meanwhile, have been reinvigorated by the return of Keane and Brad Potts to the squad. They are certainly excited to expand on this momentum as they move forward on their campaign.
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