Blackburn Rovers claimed the bragging rights in the Lancashire derby with a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Deepdale, extending their impressive away form and denting Preston North End’s promotion push.

The visitors struck first just before the interval when James Miller rose highest to power home a header, giving Rovers a deserved lead after a competitive opening half.

Preston responded immediately after the restart, with Devine levelling matters in clinical fashion to ignite hopes of a comeback.

But those hopes were dashed midway through the second half when Andri Gudjohnsen nodded his fourth goal in five League games in what proved to be the winner.

The result lifts Blackburn to 16th in the Championship, now nine points clear of the relegation zone, while Preston remain fourth, missing the chance to climb into the automatic promotion places.

Rovers’ victory continues a remarkable run on the road – five wins from their last seven away games, including three consecutive triumphs.

It’s also four wins in their past five matches home and away, underlining their resurgence.

Rovers edge Lancashire derby as Gudjohnsen form continues

Rovers edge Lancashire derby as Gudjohnsen form continues