Paynter secures points

Billy Paynter was the man of the moment at Deepdale as he bagged his first goal in a Leeds United shirt! The fans were right behind him all game and when his tremendous strike hit the back of the net it sent 5,000 travelling Leeds fans mad. It was a great moment and I was so glad I was there to see it. Paynter has had an agonising wait for his first goal, he came no closer to when his shot was blocked on the line by Davide Somma against Scunthorpe at Elland Road. Billy said "I'm really chuffed to bits". Now that United's No.9 has broken his duck and I'm sure he will kick on and score many more goals in our push for promotion.

Although Leeds capitalised on the top teams all failing to win bar Norwich it could have been a lot worse if it was not for Kasper Schmeichel making some unbelievable saves. Schmeichel made a superb save early on as he deflected a powerful strike onto the bar. He was on top form making numerous other world class saves. Kasper and the rest of the team were jubilant at the final whistle knowing full well of the importance of the victory.

Neil Kilkenny broke the deadlock at Deepdale in the first half with a terrific side-footed strike from outside of the box. Simon Grayson's side didn't perform at their best however they fought hard for a priceless victory. Last night's match also handed a debut to Barry Bannan. He came on for the final 7 minutes of the clash and looked good. He closed down the ball well and showed high levels of energy. He also demonstrated a superb ability to pick out a pass. But the night belonged to Paynter and Leeds.

The 5,000 Leeds fans made the atmosphere and they finally had something to celebrate on a Tuesday night as they recorded their first win in a night fixture this term.

Att.15,269 (5,000 Leeds)

Preston 1-2 Leeds

Kilkenny 30 - Leeds

Paynter 57 - Leeds

Hume 63 - Preston