PRESTON NORTH END VS CARDIFF CITY

After a quiet opening period, Russell Slade's side fought hard in the second half, looking to take all three points. Half-time substitute Craig Noone almost made an instant impact with two crosses almost diverted in just minutes after his introduction. The Preston North End defence and goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, excelled throughout, throwing themselves in front of every shot that the Bluebirds took in the final 45 minutes.

The hosts almost found a way past the returning David Marshall, with captain Tom Clarke heading against the top of the crossbar on 58 minutes before having to be withdrawn after a clash with Sean Morrison and his own goalkeeper.

City's best chance came after 80 minutes, Peter Whittingham's low set piece saved superbly by Pickford, with the effort looking destined to end up in the back of the net.

Winger Daniel Johnson probably should have added his sixth goal of the season with just five minute remaining, but fortunately for City, the Jamaican side footed wide at close range.

Highlights from this match will be available for City fans to view on Cardiff City Player from 12pm on Sunday.

Preston North End: Pickford, Cunningham, Clarke (Vermijl), Wright, Johnson, Gallagher, Woods, Welsh (Browne, 68), May (Keane, 68), Hugill, Reach. Subs Not Used: Kirkland, Kilkenny, Brownhill, Smith.

Cardiff City: Marshall, Peltier, Malone, Morrison, Connolly, Whittingham, Dikgacoi, Ralls (Noone, 45), Pilkington (Revell, 77), Ameobi (John, 89), Mason. Subs Not Used: Moore, Tamas, Gunnarsson, O'Keefe.