Preston manager, David Moyes

Preston goalie, Teuvo Moilanan

Warm up before defeat

Big bang theory for victories

Honoured at 75: Nat

Seconds to go!

1st half:

Another big crowd at the Reebok! Once more there were fireworks before the game and Nat Lofthouse was honoured as he was due to celebrate his 75th birhday the next day. Before the game it was a pint in town, Muldoon's for a change. Up at the ground, the Spirit of St Louis seemed strangely empty (a Happy Hour may be needed!). No free bets this time so no bet.

Bolton had the greater of the possession with chances for Holdsworth. Then oh dear! Jussi Jaaskelainen came out of his area, 10 minutes before the half to clear the ball but was left there by opposing players. Fortunately, Mike Whitlow's tackle prevented Macken from doing any damage. As Preston became more ambitious, Anderson hit Jussi's left post but Bolton went on the counter with Isaiah Rankin. His superb shot beat goalkeeper Moilanen and that was Wanderers a goal up! 6 minutes later, Preston almost equalised from any of 3 shots at goal. First Macken hit the crossbar and Andersen shot from the rebound; Jussi palmed it back onto the bar, but another shot in was turned round the left post. If ever a drink was needed at the interval!

2nd half:

This was Preston's half and they threatened that equaliser but it never came. Instead Ricketts produced a cool-as-you-like goal as he slotted the ball past Moilanen, after beating Jackson.

I nearly saw someone being "gassed" by the police outside the Family Stand, but the threat of it pacified him and he was handcuffed. Not a nice sight for the kids. Near the station, Preston fans were held back as Bolton ones got to their platform. That same old WW chant again. There were certainly more police about than for the Burnley game.