Preston North End thrashed by Salford City in Central League reserves clash

Preston North End’s young guns were beaten 4-0 by Salford City in the Central League.

The Lilywhites reserves were in action on Wednesday afternoon, and it proved to be a tough afternoon at home. Jez Davies broke the deadlock after seven minutes, following up on an excellent James Pradic save and heading home. Jonny Brindle, Finlay Cross-Adair, Ayden Garrigan and Kaedyn Kamara all had efforts for PNE, before the break, but they trailed at the interval.

On 66 minutes, it was two-nil to the visitors as Davies slotted past Pradic - following positive work from Kelly N’Mai. Nine minutes from time, Jai Curran-Nicholls rifled into the top corner from close range - before substitute Alfie Henderson scored on the rebound, late on. For PNE, young pros Cole McGhee and Kitt Nelson also featured - against a Salford team containing experience.

Post-match, Salford coach: “It was really pleasing from a couple of different aspects, we got some minutes into the legs of some of the first team players that needed it. That then gives a great opportunity for some of the younger lads to play alongside some of those more experienced players.”

PNE XI: Pradic; Nolan (Blake, 66), Critchley (Banks, 81), McGhee; Garrigan (Tarry, 66), Stringfellow, Kamara, Brindle; Carroll, Nelson; Cross-Adair (Gairns, 73). Sub not used: Stowell.

Salford City B sub: Carr, Mnoga, Olopade, Lara, Humbles, Watson (Henderson 40'), Curran-Nicholls, Nmai, Tilt (c) (Hamman 46'), Davies (Da Costa 79'), Malcolm. Salford City subs nut used: McNair, Lancaster.