PNE 0 Doncaster Rovers 2

Two goals from James O'Connor and James Hayter in the first twenty minutes gave Doncaster all three points on a damp and cloudy opening day fixture at Deepdale.
From the off, Preston were on the backfoot with a shambolic defensive display which looked more Sunday League than Championship and after conceding twice, Preston looked highly unlikely to get anything out of the game.
The first goal was finished with a fierce right footed strike by O'Connor following a fantastic move down the left flank. The second was scrappier with Lonergan parrying Billy Sharp's firm header from Friend's cross, but the keeper was powerless as Hayter was on hand to nod in the rebound from 12 yards out.
Doncaster's impressive passing made it difficult for Preston to get into the game although Hayes had a shot blocked by Martis seven minutes before half time followed by a 25 yard blast from Treacy which was comfortably saved by Doncaster keeper, Sullivan.

Word Cloud showing the frequency
with which Preston players were
mentioned by the online BBC
commentary. Click to enlarge.

A fussy refereeing display didn't help the game flow which further frustrated Preston, especially in the second half when Coutts replaced the ineffective Russell in midfield, sparking some life into the home team. This change came after Treacy had fired wide just after the restart whith Sharp and Stock also going close to putting Rovers three goals up.
Up front, Hayes and Brown looked unlikely to get on the scoresheet, but the introduction of Manchester United loan signing King is likely to give Preston fans some hope, despite him missing one of the five clear cut chances the home team had in the closing stages of the game.
The youngster showed speed, strength and a desire to win the ball, which as he settles into the team should prove invaluable.
The dismissal of Gillett for a second bookable offence wasn't enough to give Preston a way back into the match, but the home fans will take solace in the fact that in recent years, promotions have followed a defeat in the opening game of the season.