Preston set to extend terrific Deepdale record against Oldham

Preston hold a formidable record over Oldham in the Football League, with their unbeaten spell against fellow North West rivals spanning six matches and dating back to the 1980/81 season.

And under manager Simon Grayson, Deepdale has become something of a fortress. The Lilywhites are unbeaten at home and can already count a 0-0 draw against promotion favourites Wolves and a 1-0 victory over fierce rivals Blackpool in the Capital One Cup as positive results this season.

While Grayson has certainly made his side difficult to beat, they have struggled to land a decisive blow at home with both league games at Deepdale finishing in a draw. At just 5/2 for a third successive home tie, there may be value in backing this outcome.

With manager Grayson preferring to use a fluid formation, it is little surprise that the goalscoring responsibility has been shared round the side. Former Blackburn Rovers trainee Joel Byrom leads the way with two goals after netting against Coventry and Walsall. At 7/1 to score anytime, the local boy looks to be good value in adding to his goal tally.

Most surprisingly, however, is the failure of marquee signing Kevin Davies to find the back of the net for his new employers. The price of 6/4 on offer for the once-capped England international to open his Preston account at any point in the match, looks to be a little too short.

Under Lee Johnson, Oldham have been something of an inconsistent force this season, having won once and lost once in their two away league games this season.

Adam Rooney has, however, proved to be a shining light for the Latics in an otherwise indifferent start to their campaign. The striker is in fine form, having hit the back of the net three times already this season following his move from Birmingham in the summer.

The threat of Rooney, added to the creative genius of Jose Baxter, sees the hit-man an 8/1 shot to net first. Given the Irishman opened the scoring against a strong Port Vale side just two weeks ago, he looks a good bet to hit the net against a Preston side who have leaked eight goals in all competitions so far this season.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing

Fancy a flutter? Open a Ladbrokes account today and we’ll give you three free £10 bets when you bet £10