Preston boss Alan Irvine praised the performance of goalkeeper Andy Lonergan after the Lillywhites drew the first leg of their play-off semi-final with Sheffield United.

The 26-year-old stopper made a string of fine second-half saves to keep North End on level terms after Brian Howard's strike for the Blades had cancelled out Sean St Ledger's early opener.

"Andy has been top class this season and made a couple of great saves," Irvine said.

"He's done that on many occasions this season and I certainly think as a team that we competed well against Sheffield United.

"They're a very strong and physical outfit and I was pleased with that aspect of our game, but I was disappointed with how we played when we had opportunities with the ball."