THIS is the big one! North End desperately need to take something away from this crucial clash with the table-toppers and put the promotion charge back on track

The past week has been one to forget. Two home games and just one point to show for it - not the form of champions.

Gary Peters will have taken a long hard look at things after the last two home games and knows exactly what is needed to beat Gillingham. As he says himself, it's how you bounce back from defeats that matters'.

Gillingham will be going all out to sicken North End with a sucker punch . . . this vital encounter could well decide the destiny of the league title.

Preston's travelling faithful will make the long journey to Kent hoping to see their heroes record another away victory. It seems ironic that North End are now performing better away from Deepdale, especially after their autumnal demolitions!

The pressure will be on the home side to counter the PNE threat and that will suit the Whites. Andy Saville will receive plenty of attention, but it remains to be seen who will partner the high-flying hot-shot.

Graham Lancashire started the game against Rochdale, but was replaced by Steve Wilkinson in the second half. It seems like Saville has been ploughing a lone furrow up front for the last few games - now is the time to change it. Gary Peters knows that Saville can't work the oracle by himself.

One PNE striker who is looking better and better is Tony Grant. The Republic of Ireland starlet has been banging in the goals for the Reserves and can't be too far away from first team football. He has class written all over him and will soon be staking his claim.

Gary Peters also needs to tighten up his defence. Four goals conceded in two home games against average sides is not something to boast about. Champions build their supremacy on having a superb defensive record and Preston are sorely missing this at the moment.

David Moyes' absence through injury was exploited on Saturday. The PNE rear-guard looked decidedly dodgy and was breached on several occasions. This mustn't happen against Gillingham.

The Gills will be going all out to distance themselves from Preston at the top of the table and North End need to match their hunger.

We await Gary's response.

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