Decisive figure sets Preston on their way with set-piece header and commanding backline display | OneFootball

Jordan Storey headed in from a corner in the 26th minute to put Preston North End on course for a 2-1 win at Oxford United.

He met Thierry Small's clipped cross from the second phase of a corner (26.), guiding a precise header into the bottom right. The centre back attacked the near post run and punished static marking.

After the restart he took charge of the box, reading crosses early and clearing at the first contact as Oxford United loaded the area. Under sustained pressure, his positioning and timing prevented second balls from dropping in dangerous zones.

He finished with 15 clearances, eight recoveries and five aerial wins, plus a goal, embodying Preston's resilience when Oxford United delivered 33 crosses and registered 23 attempts. The numbers underline how he controlled the six-yard line and protected his goalkeeper.

Because Preston kept their three centre backs tight and Storey stepped in front of the first runner, Oxford United's aerial route was repeatedly shut down, allowing Preston to manage territory and see the game out.

Preston rise from fifth to third in the Championship and host Norwich City next. Oxford United visit Charlton Athletic.