Last-Minute Heroics for Blackburn
Yuki Ohashi scored in the dying moments of stoppage time, securing a 1-0 victory for Blackburn under new manager Michael O’Neill in his inaugural home game.
After coming on as a substitute in the 67th minute, the Japanese forward injected much-needed energy into the match. The fierce Lancashire derby saw Blackburn struggle initially to find their offensive rhythm.
However, persistence paid off when Ohashi headed the ball past David Cornell in the fifth minute of added time, marking his seventh goal of the season and arguably his most crucial.
This victory marked Blackburn’s first consecutive wins since November, pulling them six points clear of the relegation zone.
Preston’s Unbeaten Streak Ends
Preston’s three-match unbeaten streak came to an abrupt halt, as they squandered opportunities to turn their early dominance into goals. Alfie Devine rattled the woodwork twice but failed to capitalize.
The visitors began strong, with a corner from Devine hitting the bar in the second minute, though it didn’t trouble Blackburn’s goalkeeper, Balasz Toth.
Key Chances and Near Misses
Blackburn eventually settled, coming close to scoring when Eiran Cashin’s left-wing cross found Moussa Baradji, who headed wide from six yards. The threat from Preston lingered, notably when Dobbin and Devine worked together, leading to a dangerous save from Toth.
Blackburn had further chances, including a near miss when an exquisite cross from Baradji failed to find Jorgensen’s touch and another moment where Devine’s free-kick clipped the far post.
Critical Late Goal
Ohashi’s big moment arrived in stoppage time when Cashin delivered a precise left-wing cross. Ohashi expertly redirected it past Cornell, securing the decisive win.
Managers’ Reactions
Michael O’Neill, Blackburn: “We had to dig deep. In the second half, I felt we were slightly better. While the first half belonged to Preston, we gained control mid-game. Winning like this builds confidence in a team that hasn’t experienced many narrow victories recently.”
Paul Heckingbottom, Preston: “Anger is the primary feeling right now. We should have at least earned a point. We had control during parts of the game but lacked the threat we needed to convert those moments into goals.”
