McKenna Urges Clarity Ahead of Challenging Preston Match
As the Championship season progresses, clarity becomes crucial for teams like the Lilywhites. Currently sitting ninth in the standings, they have endured a rough patch. A recent 4-0 defeat at Middlesbrough added to their woes, marking their fourth consecutive loss in all competitions without scoring a single goal.
Preston’s Upcoming Challenge
Manager McKenna is well aware of the formidable challenge posed by Paul Heckingbottom’s team. The two sides faced off earlier this season, resulting in a narrow 1-0 defeat for the Lilywhites at Deepdale. Reflecting on that match, McKenna believes the outcome could have differed under different circumstances.
Understanding the Opposition
McKenna expressed his concern about facing a team that is coming off a particularly poor performance. “They are a good side with a talented squad. They have been in playoff contention all year,” he noted.
- Current Form: The Lilywhites have lost their last four matches.
- Away Performance: In their last nine away games, Preston has only lost twice.
- Previous Encounter: Preston lost 1-0 against Heckingbottom’s side earlier this season.
Despite their recent challenges, McKenna urged his players and fans to be prepared for a tightly contested match. “They are an experienced and tough Championship team,” he emphasized. “If we underestimate them, we could be in for a shock.”
As they prepare to play on Suffolk soil, McKenna insists on the necessity for intensity and quality from his players. Facing a desperate opponent seeking to regain their winning form, every moment on the pitch will be vital for the Lilywhites as they aim to turn their fortunes around. Fans can expect an intense and competitive showdown as both teams strive for redemption.
