West Brom Secures Crucial Win Over Preston to Move Clear of Relegation Zone

West Brom extended their unbeaten run to eight games with a 2-0 victory over Preston in the Championship, further distancing themselves from the relegation zone. Josh Maja's composed finish in the 11th minute gave the Baggies the lead, before Daryl Dike sealed the win with a decisive goal in the 77th minute. The result marks a significant turnaround under interim boss James Morrison, who has overseen a dramatic improvement in form since taking charge. West Brom now sit five points clear of the drop zone with three games remaining, although the threat of a potential points deduction still looms. The visitors dominated the early stages, with George Campbell's header blocked in a crowded penalty area, before Maja struck the opening goal after Aune Heggebo's miscontrol presented him with a scoring opportunity. Preston's woes were compounded by an injury to Ben Whiteman, who was forced off after attempting to tackle Isaac Price in the build-up to the goal. The hosts struggled to create clear chances, with Alfie Devine's glanced header wide from a good position their best opportunity of the first half. Paul Heckingbottom's introduction of Thierry Small at half-time failed to spark a significant improvement, as West Brom continued to control the game. Dike's goal, which came after Jayson Molumby's cut-back, sealed the win and left Preston reeling. Post-match, Heckingbottom expressed his disappointment at the performance, describing it as one of the worst of the season, while Morrison praised his side's display, highlighting the importance of the goals and the team's solid defensive performance.