As the season changed to spring so Preston North Ends season became autumn. The draw with Sheffield Wednesday put an end to hopes of a play-off place. After being ahead 2-0 a mad couple of minutes threw away 2 points that should have been in the bag.
Most supporters are now saying the playing has improved and there is some optimism about. Getting 8 more points doesn’t sound too difficult. Yet at Middlesbrough last night the impression was that PNE threw away points. The Championship has no guaranteed results there are a lot of decent teams who can turn it on given an opportunity. Getting those last points can’t be taken for granted although it would be a shock if it didn’t happen.
It was a surprise to read that clubs keep all their home gate receipts. If that is the case then PNE have definitely exceeded expectations and Trevor Hemmings is to be thanked even more. Yet Burnley and now Blackpool are above PNE and their gates are worse. It used to seem best if PNE went into the Premier League only if they had a team that looked like it might not get thrashed every week. That view seems a bit out of place with clubs like Hull and Burnley always looking for the taking but winning bragging rights. Best to have your day in the spotlight. Billy Davies was North Ends most recent best chance and another season for him would have been a very strong bet, but for whatever reason he went. So now all hangs on Darren Ferguson and he knows he also hangs on his results as PNE are on a pivot point in this phase of their existance.