The 2021-22 season is drawing ever closer, and Preston’s fixture list for the season has now been released.
After starting last season with a home defeat to Swansea, Preston open this season with another Deepdale clash, this time with a game against newly-promoted Hull City.
The 2020-21 campaign ended with a 2-1 win at Nottingham Forest, and if North End want to repeat the trick this time around, then they’ll have to beat Middlesbrough on the final day, this time at home.
Here’s a deep dive into North End’s fixture list this season…
Preston’s first five games
North End open by facing promoted Hull City on August 7th, before facing an away double header against Reading and Huddersfield Town.
It’s then back to Deepdale for two home games to finish up August, with Peterborough United and Swansea City visiting.
North End’s festive period
The busy festive period looks tricky for Preston, starting with a trip to face Millwall on December 18th before then hosting Sheffield United on Boxing Day.
Another relegated side are next up with at trip to West Bromwich Albion on December 29th, before then heading to Stoke City on New Years Day.
All four are very tough games, and Preston will face a battle to claim points in this run.
When do Preston face Blackpool?
This season sees the return of the Preston v Blackpool derby. The two sides haven’t met since August 2013, and haven’t played against each other in the league since 2010.
With Blackpool promoted, the derby is back – and the first game between the two sides will be on October 23rd at Bloomfield Road.
Preston then host the Seasiders on March 19th, and whilst both games are currently listed as 3pm kick offs, don’t be surprised to see both of those change.
When do Preston face Blackburn?
Preston’s second biggest derby this season is Blackburn, with the clashes against Rovers taking more of a back seat with Blackpool back in the mix.
They’re still big games, but having missed out on playing Burnley and Blackpool in recent years, Blackburn had taken on greater importance.
Preston’s trip to Ewood Park this season comes on December 4th, before Rovers head to Deepdale on April 23rd – North End’s penultimate home game of the season.
Fulham clash already looks enticing
Preston fans love a trip down to Fulham, and this year’s journey to Craven Cottage comes on Easter Monday.
As long as fans are allowed inside stadiums, expect to see North End fans flock down to West London in droves.