West Brom Secures Crucial Win Over Preston to Move Further Away from Relegation Zone

West Brom extended their unbeaten streak to eight games with a 2-0 victory over Preston in the Championship at Deepdale, further distancing themselves from the relegation zone. The win was facilitated by Josh Maja's composed strike in the 11th minute and Daryl Dike's decisive finish in the 77th minute. Under interim manager James Morrison, the Baggies have turned their fortunes around, having not been beaten since their initial loss to Oxford. This recent success has placed West Brom five points clear of the danger zone with three games remaining, despite the looming threat of a potential points deduction. The match saw West Brom dominate, with Preston's chances limited. The visitors' early lead was nearly replicated when George Campbell's header was blocked, but Maja's goal gave them the advantage. Preston's woes were compounded by injuries and missed opportunities, including Alfie Devine's glanced cross and Brad Potts' goalbound header. West Brom's second goal, scored by Dike, sealed the win. In the post-match comments, Preston's manager Paul Heckingbottom expressed disappointment with his team's performance, while West Brom's James Morrison praised his team's top-notch display.