Preston had to do it the hard way on Teesside after Boro took the lead through Ashley Fletcher just after the half hour mark. The game was turned on its head as Daniel Ayala was given a red card 61 mintues into the game, Paul Gallagher taking full advantage. The Spanaird was given his marching orders for a tackle on Brandon Barker which resulted in a free kick for the away side – and Gallagher scored it.
It was 100 career goals for the timeless midfielder and a way back into the game for North End.
PNE left it late, but nine minutes from the end Jayden Stockley headed Alex Neil’s side into the lead. That header gave the Lilywhites their first win at the Riverside since 1972.
1. Pearo loves it
Preston North End's Ben Pearson celebrates after the final whistle Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
2. DJ chases a former teammate
Middlesbrough's Jordan Hugill shields the ball from Preston North End's Daniel Johnson Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
3. Off you go
Referee Keith Stroud shows Middlesbrough's Daniel Ayala the red card Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
4. Gally gets PNE on the scoresheet
Preston North End's Paul Gallagher scores his side's equalising goal to make the score 1-1 Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd