Preston travelled to Manchester Swarm for their 2nd league fixture of the season in the biggest test of the season thus far. The team had shown glimpses of their potential in the first league and cup fixtures but expected a very thorough test against a playoff team from last season.

Preston got off to a very strong start with the impressive Joe Heyes driving to basket strongly straight from tip to take the lead. An uncharacteristic mix up for Swarm turned the ball over to the deadly Reiss Haggith who drained his first 3 from beyond the arc to extend the lead. Pressure was then applied at the defensive end with Preston delivering multiple stops to grow the lead to double figures mid way through the 1st. Swarm then enjoyed their first bit of joy inside with some strong post play from Darkwa bringing some relief for the home side. Preston continued their offensive push however with Danny Pilkington proving too hot to handle on the pick and roll action. The significant away following had more to cheer with Harry Parr, Andy Forsyth and Connor Porter all opening their scoring account before the quarter ended 18-28.

The second quarter started with Swarm getting some momentum through both Weaver and Schall who scored off aggressive penetration. Harry Parr was instrumental for Preston in providing a strong, disruptive defensive showing against often bigger matchups. Early foul trouble saw Andy Forsyth sit which removed some basket protection where Swarm again got joy. What looked a comfortable lead, reduced with a careless turnover off an inbound play with Swarm reducing the deficit to 2 with 3 seconds on the clock. A nice play drawn up by Coach Sam Fitzpatrick stemmed the momentum with Josh Raby finishing strong under the bucket on the buzzer. Preston in at the half 36-40 up.

After a lengthy half time break, the Preston faithful cheered the team on as they came out of the gate quickly. Danny Pilkington continued his scoring touch inside, Joe Heyes continued to push a tiring defence and Reiss Haggith, Connor Reynolds, Connor Porter and Harry Parr provided the outside threat. Swarm hit back with Weaver impressive and Swindells knocking down from beyond the arc. The tide looked to be turning when Preston were denied a clear goal trend but Swarm failed to capitalise. Adam Hope and Kieran Lee brought intensity from the bench and Connor Porter provided much needed calmness on offense to end the 3rd with Preston having extended their lead.

The 4th quarter evidenced the quality of Reiss Haggith in controlling the offense with him often beating the press to bring the ball up, then orchestrating to get an open look for his team mates. Defensively the team worked tirelessly for one another, shutting down any hope of a Manchester revival. Harry Parr managed his 5th foul to cap off a strong defensive night and Connor Porter epitomised the effort with back to back pressure and a strip, split by a fast break finish to seal the victory. Preston ran out winners having lead from start to finish, 68-82.

Coach Fitzpatrick had the following to add, 'Firstly I'm immensely proud of the discipline shown by the guys despite a tricky opponent. From tip-off to the final buzzer we led, and responded very well to being chased, considering Swarm had won 2 close games the weekend before from losing positions. Really proud of the 10 guys who all had specific roles to play on the day, much different to what we had game-planned for as Swarm didn't bring the full roster. Now we look ahead to an equally tough game away at Liverpool in which a win would send a clear message to the league and show our mental toughness moving forward.'

Top scorers:

Danny Pilkington - 21
Joe Heyes - 20
Reiss Haggith - 14