SOME games just lend themselves to time-weary cliches. On Saturday, Preston quite literally played a game of two halves.

Jittery throughout the first and on fire in the second - this game served to prove North End are more like competent enough to overcome a few promotion-push jitters.

But it is arguable that North End were lucky still to be in a position where they could still control their destiny after a fighting first-half performance from a petulent Pompey side.

Within 15 minutes of the start, Kevin Harper had gone close three times - including a one-on-one with keeper Tepi Moilanen after just minutes.

Six minutes after that, he headed wide from point blank range before hitting a 20 yard shot which Tepi scrambled to save.

Moilanen again kept Preston level when he met Jamie Vincent's free kick, diverted to him by Scott Wilson's head.

Preston finally kicked into life minutes before the end of the opening 45 when Iain Anderson hit an impressive shot after taking Richard Cresswell's cross and turning.

Dickson Etuhu blasted over from a Graham Alexander corner.

It wasn't enough to stop the booing at half time - North End fans have become accustomed to watching better.

On 62 minutes, Lee Cartwrightpicked out Deepdale debutant Clyde Wijnhard on the edge of the box and the ex-Leeds striker belted home an incredible right foot volley.

Minutes later Svetoslave Todorov clashed with Sean Gregan, and the Pompey player left the pitch moments later when he was given the red card for kicking North End's skipper.

North End doubled their advantage on 70 minutes when Scott Wilson held back and the brought down Wijnhard.

Cool defender Graham Alexander hit home the penalty.

In the dying minutes, Wijnhard hit from long range with a shot which piereced Pompey's ragged defence, only for it to rebound out off the post.

Three essential points collected - North End are still in with a shout.

Preston almost score a third but Wijnhard's shot came back off the woodwork.

PNE 2

PORTSMOUTH 0