'Something's stirring at Deepdale'

You can feel it, can't you? Something's stirring at Deepdale.

Saturday's 1–0 win over Ipswich wasn't just three points - it was a statement.

Milutin Osmajic, ice-cool from the spot in the 11th minute, made it three goals in three league games. That's the kind of start we as fans dream about – a striker in form.

But this wasn't a smash-and-grab. Ipswich had the ball, sure, but North End had backbone, courage and a defiant character right the way through the team.

A clear indication of the siege mentality that Paul Heckingbottom has spoken so much about over the summer.

Gibson, Hughes and man of the match Jordan Storey were all immense; the whole team put their bodies on the line to secure the win.

It was gritty, disciplined, and exactly what this league demands. As Heckingbottom said post-match, it's the sort of performance that makes you proud to be a Preston fan.

The less said about the second half of the Wrexham game midweek in the EFL Cup, the better; however, the first half was excellent.

The highlight was the debut of new loan signing Lewis Dobbin from Aston Villa.

He's the kind of player who gets you out of your seat. Quick feet, fearless attitude and an eye for goal - his connection with Daniel Jebbison and Alfie Devine was wonderful and hopefully a sign of things to come once Dobbin is up to speed.

Heckingbottom said we needed creativity and attacking flair. Dobbin looks ready to deliver.

Now it's time to turn the page and concentrate on what really matters - the league.

Next up, a trip to Portsmouth. A proper test, a hostile ground, and the kind of fixture that reveals what this Preston side is truly made of.

We'll be looking to put things right after last season's disappointment at Fratton Park, where we fell 3–1 with former Lilywhite Jacob Murphy and ex-Accrington striker Colby Bishop on the scoresheet.

This time, the aim is clear - a stronger performance, a statement on the road, and three points to keep the momentum building.

You can follow every kick with us on BBC Radio Lancashire's Match Day Live — build-up from 14:00 BST, then full commentary with Ross Heaton and me from 15:00.

So, are the good times coming back to Deepdale? It's early days, but there's a calm buzz again.

A striker in form, a defence that digs in, and a manager who knows what he wants.

For the first time in a while, it feels like we're building something and that we have momentum. And as fans, that's all we ask for - hope, fight, and a team that makes us proud.

See you on Saturday. Up the Lilywhites.