Derby denied in Preston stalemate

London - Derby County missed the chance to move up to fifth in English football's second-tier Championship when they were held to a goalless draw away to Preston North End on Friday.

The Rams, however, were unluckly to see Harry Wilson twice hit the woodwork in the first half at Deepdale.

The result left Derby level on points with fifth-placed Middlesbrough but behind on goal difference.

Things might have been worse for the visitors after Preston dominated the second half.

Only the top two sides at the end of the regular season are guaranteed promotion to the lucrative Premier League, with the next four taking part in a series of post-season play-offs to decide the third club that goes up.

Wilson saw a powerful shot hit the crossbar in the 11th minute and another well-struck effort come back off the inside of a post five minutes before half time.

Preston, however, hit back after the break, with Brad Potts and Sean Maguire both going close.