By Alex Atkinson -
PNEfans.net
Stalemate in McKenna Testimonial
PNE 0-0 Everton
Over 9,000 fans turned out at Deepdale,
to support Paul McKenna on his testimonial night. The Preston
grafter celebrated a successful
10 years at the club with a pre-season friendly against the Toffee’s.
Over 5,000 Toffee's at Deepdale Former Lilywhites boss David Moyes brought his Premiership side
to Deepdale, which turned out to be a quiet affair. Paul Simpson
named a strong team once again, playing a 4-5-1 system with Nugent
playing upfront on his own.
The first half didn’t manage to create any clear cut chances
for either team. Recent Everton signing Andy Johnson was man marked
out of the game by the rock solid Youl Mawene. Johnson’s
striker partner James Beattie didn’t make Carlo Nash work
one bit.
North End kept the ball well in the first
half, passing the ball neatly which didn’t harm the Everton
back line. The second half was much of the same for both sides,
only coming to life towards
the end of the match.
North End and Everton made numerous substitutions
in the second half. Preston’s best chance of the game was created by two
of the subs. Danny Dichio headed down a cross from the right straight
into Whaley’s path.
Simon Whaley got to the ball ahead of Alan Stubs then released
his shot only for the Everton keeper to make a great save. Andy
Lonergan was called into action in the final minute of the game,
making a smart save down to his left.
Sean St. Ledger made his debut for the Whites with an impressive
display, along side Mawene who played outstanding. Paul McKenna
ran the show from midfield, capping off a good testimonial match
for himself.
McKenna picked up the man of the match award,
which was inevitable. Paul Simpson will take many positives from
this game, his defence
taming at £14m strike force. The Preston support was poor,
with the attendance holding more Everton fans than Preston fans.
PNE and Everton line up to welcome McKenna |
0-0 
