'A win at Deepdale to savour'

Living in the Lakes means every trip back to Blackburn feels ever more of a journey.

Listening to all the talk on the way down the night before the derby at Preston, it was all about injuries and a makeshift team.

Valerien Ismael's approach feels almost utilitarian - system first, individuals second.

I understood not putting George Pratt in for the previous match against Derby, but seeing him start this one raised eyebrows.

Cut to being there on Friday night at Deepdale under the lights - I'd not seen us win there before. I missed the 4–1 win but I've seen a few draws and seen us end up losing 3-2 from being 2-0 up.

But credit where it's due, the performance was up there, and I came away struggling to pick one player to single out.

As much as Ryoya Morishita grabbed the man-of-the-match award, for me Ryan Hedges, Lewis Miller, and Sondre Tronstrad deserve honourable mentions.

Sondre was back to his best, organizing the back line. Miller gave us a point-blank goal despite still probably not unpacking his Aussie bags from international duties. And Hedges? He embodies the manager's plan and does the hard work well.

Andri Gudjohnsen looks like a proper number nine. He's always in the right place, and if he keeps this up, his numbers could be impressive.

Positive signs too from Moussa Baradji, who made a brief appearance and showed glimpses of real potential, though he needs time.

And maybe Todd Cantwell soon? If we can maintain this level, we could navigate the unexpected changes well.

Lots of games ahead, lots of positives - and finally, a win at Deepdale to savour.