West Bromwich Albion extended their unbeaten run to eight games with a crucial 2-0 victory over Preston North End in the Championship, further distancing themselves from the relegation zone. Josh Maja's composed finish in the 11th minute gave the visitors an early lead, before Daryl Dike sealed the win with a decisive strike in the 77th minute. The result leaves West Brom five points clear of danger with three matches remaining, although the threat of a potential points deduction still looms. The Baggies dominated the early stages, with George Campbell's header from a corner kick blocked in a crowded penalty area.
However, they soon took the lead when Maja slammed the ball past Daniel Iversen after Aune Heggebo inadvertently found his strike partner. Preston's woes were compounded when Ben Whiteman injured himself attempting to tackle Isaac Price, leading to an early substitution. The visitors continued to press, with Iversen making a crucial save to deny Price's goal-bound cross in the 25th minute. Preston's first notable chance came when Alfie Devine glanced Andrew Hughes' cross wide, but the hosts struggled to gain momentum.
The introduction of Thierry Small at half-time failed to spark a reaction, as West Brom continued to control the game. Max O'Leary made a crucial save to deny Daniel Jebbison's close-range effort, before Brad Potts' header forced O'Leary to tip the ball over the bar. Maja could have doubled his tally, but fired straight at Iversen from the centre of the box.
However, Dike's introduction proved decisive, as he smashed past Iversen from six yards to secure the win. Preston's Paul Heckingbottom expressed his disappointment with the performance, stating that his team was 'outfought' in the first half.
In contrast, West Brom's James Morrison praised his team's 'top performance', highlighting the importance of the goals and the team's defensive solidity.