Match Report: PNE 2 United 1
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was almost the last-gasp hero for United's shadow squad when they slipped to a rare pre-season defeat at the hands of Championship side Preston North End.
The Reds skipper for the day hit the crossbar in injury time, having pulled a goal back from the penalty spot in the 85th minute.
It was a good workout for Solskjaer and a mildly entertaining contest for the fans at Deepdale and those watching live on MUTV or ManUtd.com (MUTV Online). The North End fans clearly enjoyed it more, as their side put one over the big city boys from down the road.
Former United player Danny Pugh gave North End the lead in the third minute and the home side consolidated their lead in the 59th minute with a second goal from Simon Whaley.
Sir Alex Ferguson once again gave youth a fling in this fixture and they did well against a strong Preston side that will once again have Premiership ambitions this coming season.
Although billed as a first-team friendly, there were very few faces in UnitedÂ’s starting line-up who could realistically expect to be on duty when the Reds open the new Premiership campaign against Fulham in three weeksÂ’ time.
Paul McShane, who made a substitute appearance in WednesdayÂ’s match at Celtic, was in from the start to share the central defensive responsibilities with Jonny Evans. Darron Gibson was also given a place from the start after being restricted to substitute outings against Kaizer Chiefs and Celtic.
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