IN WHAT was seen by many as a clash of the two main title contenders, Preston confirmed their championship aspirations with an empahtic 4-1 victory over Bolton.

Following three fruitless trips to Bolton in past league campaigns, Preston's youthful side finally put that ghost to rest with a thoroughly professional display.

This victory sets Preston up nicely for a fiery encounter against Morecambe at the weekend.

Preston began the game confidently and their first two attempts on target resulted in goals.

First, a fine move involving Mark Fletcher and Phil Bowman across the D allowed Chris Neath the necessary space to skilfully sweep Preston into the lead.

And before Bolton could compose themselves Preston went two up following a deflected short corner strike by captain Richard Sullivan.

However, Bolton demonstrated why they finished runners-up last season and began to press forward in search of a way back.

But each time they threatened to pull a goal back they were thwarted by the defensive qualities of the Sullivan brothers and Ian Brown at the back.

David Sullivan showed why he was appointed Lancashire under 17 captain with a series of precise tackles as Bolton's attackers were continually foiled by the youngster.

Finally they did pull a goal back but in the most acrominous of circumstances. Following a scramble in the D the umpire deemed a stick tackle by Chris Neath was worthy of a penalty stroke.

Despite Preston's protests Steve Way tucked away the flick.

However, Bolton's joy was shortlived as Preston regained control of the game following the half-time interval.

Sam Sinclair began to run proceedings from centre half and a slick interchange of passes with Luke Wilson helped conjure up the third goal. And it was definitely worth waiting for as Phil Bowman brushed off a couple of challenges before unleashing his trademark reverse stick shot into the top corner of the net.

With this goal Bolton were finished as they continually wasted possession of the ball in pursuit of a second goal.

The victory was completed in the final minutes as Luke Wilson capped a fine all-round display with a simple tap-in at the back post following a short corner routine.

On Saturday Preston welcome Morecambe to West Cliff for a 2.15pm push back.

RESULT: Bolton 1 Preston 4