Football: McVEIGH CONJURS A WINNER

PAUL McVeigh's hunger for the spectacular came off as his overhead kick gave the Canaries another victory away from home.

But the truth behind this victory was that it was a classic 'smash and grab' raid.

David Nielsen put Norwich ahead in the 34th minute with the visitors' first effort on goal.

And though Richard Cresswell equalised in the second half, McVeigh restored Norwich's lead just two minutes later as he stunned Preston's defence with his eighth goal of the season.

Norwich boss Nigel Worthington had to admit his high-flying Canaries had their wings clipped time and time again as Preston threw everything at them - notching up 11 shots on target to Norwich's two.

He said: "It was a magnificent performance from the point of view of us showing resilience, determination and character. Preston are a very good side and this is a tough place to come to."

MAN OF THE MATCH RICARDO FULLER

Tricky touches deserved more reward.

PRESTON: Moilanen 7, Alexander 6, Lucketti 7, Murdock 7, Broomes 6, Skora 6 (Healy 6), McKenna 6, Etuhu 7, Lewis 7, FULLER 8, Cresswell 7.

NORWICH: Green 6, Nedergaard 6, Kenton 7, MacKay 7, Drury 6, Emblen 6 (Southall 6), Mulryne 6, Holt 6, Heckingbottom 7, McVeigh 7, Nielsen 7 (Abbey 6).

MANAGER RATINGS: Brown 7; Worthington 7.

REFEREE: P Rejer 5.

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