Blackburn Rovers delivered a major blow to Preston North End’s promotion push with a 2–1 derby win at Deepdale, thanks to Andri Gudjohnsen’s decisive second-half header.
Preston had the chance to move up to second in the Championship but were undone by Blackburn’s strong away form. Rovers struck first when Lewis Miller nodded in a corner just before half-time, scoring his first goal for the club.
However, Preston responded almost instantly. Alfie Devine capitalised on a defensive lapse, squeezing the ball in only seconds after the restart.
Gudjohnsen Seals It as Rovers Hold Firm
Blackburn regained control after the break, and Gudjohnsen — scoring his fourth goal in five league matches — headed home from Ryoya Morishita’s free-kick to restore the lead on 62 minutes.
“We showed all the faces you need in the Championship,”
said manager Valerien Ismael, praising his side’s resilience.
Preston struggled to create chances in the closing stages and failed to threaten an equaliser. Daniel Iversen kept the scoreline respectable with key saves, including one to deny Morishita late on.
Preston boss Paul Heckingbottom admitted,
“We were wasteful, and conceding two set-play goals cost us.”
Blackburn’s fifth away win of the season now places them among the league’s strongest travellers, while Preston’s promotion hopes take a hit.
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