West Brom extended their unbeaten run to eight games with a crucial 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 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 games remaining, although the threat of a potential points deduction still looms.
The Baggies dominated the early stages, with George Campbell's header blocked in a crowded penalty area, before Maja emphatically slotted the ball past Daniel Iversen. Preston's woes were compounded when Ben Whiteman injured himself attempting to tackle Isaac Price, leading to an early substitution. The hosts struggled to create clear chances, with Alfie Devine glancing a cross wide from a good position. After the interval, Preston introduced Thierry Small in an attempt to spark a reaction, but West Brom remained in control.
Max O'Leary made a crucial save to deny Daniel Jebbison, 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, before Dike smashed home the second goal from six yards. Preston's Paul Heckingbottom expressed disappointment with his team's performance, stating that they were '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.