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.
9. Josh Windass - 5
Was involved in a lot of the good things that happened. Took shots on and provided running. Strapped on the armband after Palmer's departure. Struck the pen badly. Taken off with 25 left. | UGC
10. Iké Ugbo - 4
Off at half-time. Out of position and neither one thing nor the other in the end; unable to impact things centrally and not there to capitalise on Johnson's natural ball wide. | UGC
11. Michael Smith - 6
Won headers in the first half. Another classic effort - lots of work. Created one chance at the back post. Offered a focal point and got his reward for hard work with a goal. | UGC
12. Pol Valentin - 6
On at the break. Did well to burst through and win a penalty in an instant impact. Gets them up the pitch. Couple of hairy moments the other way but made tackles. | UGC