Preston Away, 5th September 2026
Optimism was high on a day where the sun was blazing, and over 5,600 Rovers fans, including our members, made the short journey to Deepdale for an early kick off and the first 100 Club away trip of the season to face off against pointless Preston (a reference to their 100% losing record going into the game, not their relative significance as a football club, compared to Rovers!)
It was then perhaps inevitable that the home side would take all points against a wasteful, and injury-torn Rovers, who lined up with midfielder Kristi Montgomery in defence. 17-year old striker and fellow Academy Graduate Harvey Higgins also made his career debut as a substitute later on, both of whom can hold their heads high from their performances as they demonstrated that the 100 Club’s continued financial support of the Academy is going to good use, (although the same can’t be said for the 1st team transfer kitty).
Rovers were perhaps the better side but failed to take their chances, whereas North End where clinical with the few they had, taking a two-nil lead against the run of play, before Rovers forced an own goal to make it 2-1 and Jayden Fevrier hit the bar with a shot that would have given Rovers at least a deserved draw, despite not being at their best.
With the consolation of a short journey back to the pub, and desperate for a cold beer or two after an afternoon soaking up the sunshine, we made our way to the Fieldens Arms at Mellor for a first class meal and service that seemed to leave everyone satisfied, and despite the defeat, there was a good atmosphere among the members as we drowned our sorrows and looked forward to a better outcome on our next trip.
Correct Score: Sam Graham £30
First Scorer: Nick McCarthy £10, Barry Turner £5, Bill Whalley £5.
Takings £140, £50 Payout, £90 Profit.