Preston North End picked up a huge win on Tuesday night, beating Bournemouth 3-2 at the Vitality Stadium.
Alex Neil was looking to get back on track after two heavy defeats at the hands of Blackburn Rovers and Watford, and a trip to the South Coast seemed a little daunting.
Still, Preston turned in a committed and clinical display, taking a 3-0 lead with a trio of outstanding goals.
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Tom Barkhuizen finished off an incisive counter-attack, Scott Sinclair scored a stunning long-range lob and Patrick Bauer tucked home a well-worked set-piece.
Goals from Junior Stanislas and Sam Surridge set up a tense finish, but Preston managed to hang on for all three points.
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There were a number of big performers for Preston last night, with everyone contributing to a true team win on the South Coast.
Yet it’s time to show some appreciation for Seani Maguire. The Irishman was heavily criticised throughout last season, as whilst he put his injury woes behind him, he struggled to find top form.
Maguire was given the nod to lead the Preston attack on Tuesday night, and he produced a fine display; he went close with a fine effort in the first half, held the ball up well for the opening goal, worked his socks off, provided real mobility and link-up play with his back to goal and even caused issues in the air.
Alex Neil was effusive with praise of Maguire after the full-time whistle, calling the striker’s performance ‘magnificent’ – and Preston fans agreed.
Some called Maguire ‘outstanding’ and ‘unbelievable’ after his display against Bournemouth, suggesting it was his finest display in a while and he deserves some long-awaited praise for his performance.