Coming To Cov - Preston North End

Last updated : 31 March 2006 By Covsupport

After the nightmare that was Crewe, Coventry City need to put in a good performance and continue their excellent home record against Preston North End.

Dennis Wise is back in contention after serving a two match suspension. Stephen Hughes and Richard Duffy could be available after coming through a reserve friendly unscathed.

Preston, who beat Crewe on Tuesday to keep themselves firmly in the play-off spots, have doubts over Brian O'Neill and Paul McKenna although Brian Stock and Youl Mawene could return. Matt Hill is out with knee ligament damage and joins a casualty list which includes Danny Dichio, David Nugent, Adam Nowland, Andy Lonergan and Callum Davidson.

They have a former Sky Blue in Julian Darby on their coaching staff who told Preston's website: It will be odd but I enjoy going to new stadiums. “From all the accounts that I've heard it is a tremendous place to play football, lovely surroundings and I'm really looking forward to the game.”

Earlier in the season, Preston ripped City apart in the first half scoring three times before Stern John netted a second half consolation. The game will be refereed by Mike Pike from Cumbria who makes his first visit to the Arena and will be the 23rd game between the two sides. City have won eight and drawn on seven occasions.

The temperature is expected to be thirteen degrees and rain is forecast. Take care whilst travelling to and from the stadium.

Tickets are still available and a family ticket is just £30.

As with most home games lately, you can expect Coventry City Council parking wardens out on the streets, so make sure you park either in a car park or well away from the no parking zone. Take care when travelling to and from the stadium.

There is a road closure order which has come into effect around the Arena. Rowleys Green Road, Cornonel Ave and Judds Lane will be close from 2pm until 6pm for a afternoon kick off. Access will be for permit holders only with all vehicles held back for approximately fifteen minutes after the final whistle to allow pedestrians to leave safely.

City U18's are at away to Ipswich Town in an FA Academy Inter League fixture.

On Sunday, Coventry City Ladies travel to Leafield Athletic in a Midland Women's Combination fixture whilst the reserves are at home to Derby County in a Cup tie.