Preston North End 2-2 Middlesbrough: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Coral’s post-match review of Preston North End 2-2 Middlesbrough in the Championship on Saturday, 13 September 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

The match between Preston North End and Middlesbrough ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Deepdale. The result was somewhat surprising given Middlesbrough's strong recent form, having won their last three matches before this encounter. Preston, on the other hand, had a mixed bag of results, with a loss to Portsmouth followed by two home wins. The game saw Preston take an early lead through Lewis Dobbin, but Middlesbrough fought back with goals from Matt Targett and a dramatic injury-time equaliser by Sontje Hansen, only for Jordan Storey to salvage a point for the hosts in the 88th minute.

Despite the draw, Preston can take heart from their resilience, especially after conceding late in the game. Jordan Storey's late goal not only secured a point but also ended Middlesbrough's winning streak. The result keeps Preston in the mix in the Championship, maintaining their position in the top half of the table. For Middlesbrough, the draw is a minor setback, but they remain at the top of the league, showcasing their ability to fight back even when trailing.

The statistics from the match reflect Middlesbrough's dominance in possession, holding 61% compared to Preston's 39%. Despite this, Preston managed to secure a draw, which suggests they were effective in their counter-attacks. Middlesbrough's higher number of corners (4 to Preston's 3) and their injury-time goal further highlight their attacking intent throughout the game. However, Preston's higher successful dribble percentage (52% to Middlesbrough's 40%) indicates they were more effective in breaking down the opposition's defense when they had the ball.

The yellow card count was notably higher for Middlesbrough, with three bookings compared to Preston's single caution. This might suggest a more aggressive approach from Middlesbrough, which could have contributed to the tension in the game. Overall, the statistics show a game where Middlesbrough controlled the ball but Preston capitalised on their opportunities, leading to a fair result.

The key moments of the match were defined by the goals and late drama. Preston took the lead early on through Lewis Dobbin's 22nd-minute strike, setting the tone for an exciting encounter. The game's momentum shifted when Middlesbrough's Matt Targett equalised in the 72nd minute, showcasing their resilience. The drama peaked in injury time when Sontje Hansen scored for Middlesbrough in the 90+2nd minute, seemingly securing a dramatic victory.

However, Preston's Jordan Storey had the final say, scoring in the 88th minute to level the score once again. This late goal was crucial in salvaging a point for Preston and preventing Middlesbrough from extending their winning streak. The substitutions made by both teams, particularly Preston's quadruple change in the 62nd minute, also played a significant role in the game's outcome, as they helped maintain the team's energy and tactical flexibility.

Preston North End lined up in a 3-5-2 formation, with Daniel Iversen in goal and a back three of Jordan Storey, Lewis Gibson, and Andrew Hughes. The midfield was anchored by Ben Whiteman, with Alfie Devine and Ali McCann providing support, while Pol Valentín and Thierry Small operated as wing-backs. Up front, Lewis Dobbin and Daniel Jebbison led the line.

The lineup was fairly standard, with no major surprises. The impact of the substitutions, particularly the introduction of Michael Smith, Harrison Armstrong, Mads Frøkjær-Jensen, and Andrija Vukčević, was significant. Jordan Storey's performance was standout, not only for his defensive duties but also for his crucial late goal, which earned Preston a valuable point.

Middlesbrough opted for a 3-4-3 formation, with Sol Brynn in goal and a back three of Luke Ayling, Darragh Lenihan, and Alfie Jones. The midfield was controlled by Aidan Morris and Hayden Hackney, with Callum Brittain and Matt Targett as wing-backs. Up top, Morgan Whittaker, Tommy Conway, and Kaly Sène formed the attacking trio.

The lineup was typical for Middlesbrough, with no major surprises. The substitutions made by Middlesbrough, including Dávid Strelec, Sverre Halseth Nypan, Alan Browne, and Sontje Hansen, played a crucial role in the game's outcome. Sontje Hansen's late goal was particularly impactful, showcasing his ability to make a difference off the bench.

Jordan Storey is Coral’s Man of the Match, and his performance justified this accolade. Scoring a crucial goal in the 88th minute, Storey not only secured a point for Preston but also demonstrated his importance to the team. His contribution included 1 goal and 1 assist, with 1 key pass, highlighting his all-around impact on the game.

Recent Championship matches:

• Draw: 2-2 vs Middlesbrough (H)

• Loss: 0-1 vs Portsmouth (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Ipswich Town (H)

• Win: 2-1 vs Leicester City (H)

Recent Championship matches:

• Draw: 2-2 vs Preston North End (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Sheffield United (H)

• Win: 2-1 vs Norwich City (A)

• Win: 3-0 vs Millwall (A)

Preston North End now sit in 8th place with 8 points. Their next match is against Derby County, who are in 19th place with 5 points, on September 20, 2025, at 14:00. The draw against Middlesbrough should boost their confidence, and they will look to capitalise on Derby's lower position to secure a win and climb higher in the league standings.

Middlesbrough remain at the top of the Championship with 13 points. They will face West Bromwich Albion, who are in 5th place with 10 points, on September 19, 2025, at 19:00. Despite the draw, Middlesbrough's performance showed their resilience, and they will aim to return to winning ways against a strong West Brom side to maintain their lead at the top of the table.

Championship Game Week 6, 25/26

• Middlesbrough Vs West Brom

• QPR Vs Stoke City

• Birmingham Vs Swansea

• Leicester City Vs Coventry

• Blackburn Rovers Vs Ipswich Town

• Derby County Vs Preston

• Hull City Vs Southampton

• Portsmouth Vs Sheffield Wednesday

• Sheffield United Vs Charlton

• Norwich City Vs Wrexham

• Bristol City Vs Oxford Utd

• Millwall Vs Watford

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.