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North End made it two opening day victories in as many seasons with a hard fought win over local rivals Oldham Athletic.
The rejuvenated Jonathan Macken was the hero of the hour, capping a superb performance with the only goal of the game on 65 minutes.
Despite a frenetic opening from Preston, it was Oldham who had the better of the first half, loan striker Junior Agogo hitting the post, though there was a hint of a touch from David Lucas. The half continued in the same vein, North End conceding corner after corner, mainly due to Lucas's apparent inability to communicate with his defence.
Latics' veteran midfielder John Sheridan seemed to establish a grip on the game in those early stages, and it was only when he tired later on that North End came into their own.
Straight after the break, Preston's midfield became more effective, Mark Rankine, who struggled in the first half, began to hassle and harry, forcing the likes of Sheridan and Lee Duxbury into errors, allowing Sean Gregan and Michael Appleton to stamp more authority on the game.
When the breakthrough finally came, it was so easy it was almost embarrassing. Macken brought the ball forward, laid it off to Kurt Nogan, who's pass-cum-shot ricocheted back into the former Manchester United youngster's path, who proceeded to round Oldham keeper Gary Kelly before slotting into an empty net.
After that, the whites' defence looked pretty solid, Graham Alexander was excellent throughout, particularly during the first period.
As Oldham pushed forward, Preston exploited gaps at the back, nearly capitalising on a couple of occasions. Mark Rankine was particularly guilty, sliding the ball wide when clean through on goal.
The home side had their chances however, and should have equalised with six minutes remaining, striker Mark Allott blasting over the top from ten yards out when it looked easier to score.
Overall, an encouraging start, both Steve Basham and Rob Edwards looked sharp when coming on as late substitutes, and both will prove to be crucial to the side this season. Let's hope we continue with the same amount of luck and endeavour.
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