Emil Riis scored a stunning equaliser as Preston North End battled back to earn a 1-1 draw against Millwall in a tightly contested Championship match at Deepdale.
Ivanovic Opens Scoring with Brilliant Free-Kick
Millwall took the lead in the 40th minute through Mihailo Ivanovic, who delivered a moment of brilliance. The Serbian forward struck a 25-yard free-kick over the Preston defensive wall and into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Freddie Woodman with no chance.
The goal was a rare highlight in a first half that lacked quality, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. Millwall came close to doubling their lead when Ivanovic hit the crossbar with a header from a well-placed Joe Bryan cross.
Riis Volley Earns Preston a Draw
Preston responded immediately after the break. Just two minutes into the second half, Danish striker Riis latched onto a loose ball after Japhet Tanganga failed to clear his lines. Riis connected perfectly with a volley, sending the ball bouncing past Millwall keeper Lukas Jensen to make it 1-1.
With Preston manager Paul Heckingbottom watching from the stands due to a touchline ban, the home side pushed for a winner. Substitute Milutin Osmajic, introduced at half-time to add a physical presence, saw his shot fly over the bar, while Will Keane and Kaine Kesler-Hayden also missed late opportunities.
Preston Boss Paul Heckingbottom
Preston North End boss Paul Heckingbottom felt his side were the dominant force in the game, but lacked the ability to break Millwall down, as he explained to the BBC.
“We were certainly the dominant team but it’s a positive point having gone behind to a team who defend really well. For all the ball we had, we lacked penetration. It was more about risking the ball, being a bit more direct and putting our three attackers in the middle of the pitch high up.”
Writer’s View
Preston North End showed character to recover from a goal down, and Emil Riis’ equaliser was a moment of real quality in an otherwise scrappy game. While the draw keeps both teams within touching distance of the play-off places, neither side did enough to suggest they are ready to mount a serious challenge. Millwall’s defensive resilience remains a strength, but Preston’s inability to convert possession into goals could prove costly as the season progresses.
