Greg is PNE's golden boy

The left wing-back scored 10 minutes from time against his former club at Ashton Gate to secure a 2-1 victory.

It was Cunningham’s first goal in a North End shirt and came straight from a training-ground routine.

An own goal from Robins defender Nathan Baker had given PNE the lead nine minutes into the second half.

The home side swiftly equalised through Aaron Wilbraham as the game opened up after a tepid first period.

Then came Cunningham’s big moment, his diving header from a Paul Gallagher corner securing the three points.

Lilywhites manager Grayson said: “Greg has taken a lot of stick over the last few weeks and months from the other lads because he doesn’t score goals in training, let alone in a game!

“So it was great to see him score at last and it was nice to see a routine we do in training come off.

“It is one we won’t be able to use at the weekend because everyone has seen us do it now.

“Greg is a top-drawer player and lad, it is great to have him at our club.

“He has been one of our most consistent players this season.

“I felt that we were worthy winners and that it was a good performance as the away team.

“It is never easy to get an away win in the Championship and we had to work hard for it.

“We were comfortable in the first half, Bristol City didn’t create anything.

“After we scored the first goal, the game opened up more and we were disappointed to concede the equaliser.

“From then on, we did a professional job and got the winning goal.”

North End gave a debut to Ben Pearson, signed from Manchester United on Monday for an undisclosed fee.

Another piece of business will be done with United over the next couple of days, with Liam Grimshaw set to join in a permanent deal.

Grimshaw was on loan at Motherwell for the first half of the season, making 14 appearances for the Scottish outfit.

They were set to extend that loan before North End came in with their offer to United.

The 20-year-old, who hails from Burnley, is a versatile player who can operate in defence or midfield.

Said Grayson: “He has agreed personal terms and has a medical this morning which we expect him to pass – he will join the group after that.

“Liam is a young lad that I know, he has a fantastic background at Manchester United and has first-team experience playing in the Scottish Premier League.

“Again we have that connection with Manchester United, getting some good young players out of there.

“At this club we want young players who are hungry for success and want to further their careers here.

“I’m delighted we have got him and I thank the owner for helping out in getting another body into the building.”