Wilder’s Wait Continues as Preston Stun Riverside
Chris Wilder’s search for his first victory as Middlesbrough manager took another frustrating turn as Preston North End staged a dramatic late comeback to win 2-1 at the Riverside Stadium. What seemed like a controlled performance by Boro unraveled spectacularly in the final 13 minutes, handing Frankie McAvoy’s side a vital three points in their Championship campaign.
How the Game Unfolded
First Half: Boro’s Dominance Without Reward
Middlesbrough started cautiously but grew into the game, with Paddy McNair breaking the deadlock in the 33rd minute. The Northern Ireland international, usually a center-back, showcased his aerial prowess with a thunderous header from Jonny Howson’s corner, crashing the ball in off the underside of the bar.
Preston had two strong penalty appeals waved away—first when Marcus Tavernier shoved Emil Riis in the box, and later when Isaiah Jones’ challenge on Josh Earl went unpunished. Daniel Iversen then produced a stunning save to deny Duncan Watmore just before halftime, keeping Preston in the game.
Second Half: Missed Opportunities Haunt Boro
Boro continued to create chances after the break. Lee Peltier rattled the woodwork with a curling effort, while Iversen made crucial saves to deny McNair, Onel Hernandez, and Andraz Sporar.
Mostbet tactical observation: Wilder’s overlapping center-backs caused Preston problems, but Boro’s lack of clinical finishing left the door open for a comeback.
The Dramatic Turnaround
Evans & Riis Deliver the Knockout Blows
Against the run of play, Ched Evans—who played under Wilder at Sheffield United—rose highest to head in Ben Whiteman’s corner in the 77th minute. Just four minutes later, a defensive error gifted Riis the winner, as Sol Bamba’s misplaced pass deflected to the Dane, who coolly curled past Luke Daniels.
Post-Match Reactions
Wilder’s Frustration
The Boro boss didn’t hold back:
“We lost a game we should have comfortably won. We played like we were three up when we were only one. That complacency cost us.”
McAvoy’s Relief
Preston’s manager praised his team’s resilience:
“The players delivered when it mattered. The spirit in this squad is incredible.”
Key Takeaways
- Boro’s Defensive Fragility: Conceding from set pieces remains an issue.
- Preston’s Resilience: McAvoy’s side now has four wins in seven games.
- Iversen’s Heroics: The Preston keeper made five crucial saves.
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