Sheffield Wednesday scrambled back from a sloppy start to earn a point against a determined Preston North End side on an afternoon they never quite got going as they’d have liked. There’s no shame in the result of course, but the first half in particular will grind the gears of many as they allowed a limited visiting side plenty of opportunity to claw their way into the game.
Michael Smith earned the equaliser after a flurry of changes from Owls boss Danny Rohl. The result, achieved without the suspended Barry Bannan, takes Wednesday to four unbeaten after the international break - but extended their home form to just one win in six. If they want to push on higher, it’s their results at Hillsborough that need a wee kick up the jacksie.
Here are our ratings from a cold and blustery S6.
5. Djeidi Gassama - 5
Played a different role. Ran into some cul-de-sacs and lost it once or twice but got had a couple of nice moments. Lacked pizzazz on a day Wednesday had none. | UGC
6. Liam Palmer - 4
Stepped in to take control of the midfield in Bannan's absence and didn't manage it. Couldn't quite inject any momentum on the ball. Off at the break. | UGC
7. Shea Charles - 5
A danger when he got forward early doors but faded. Started a couple of nice attacks. Elsewhere he had some good ideas that weren't quite executed - involved in the moment that won the penalty. Not his finest outing and off for Chalobah with 20 or so left. | Steve Ellis / UGC
8. Marvin Johnson - 5
A way from his high-standard best. Wasn't a day where Wednesday were fizzing with options but he was slow to release the ball at points. Provided one cross of real danger. Yellow carded having got the wrong side of his man. | UGC