Portsmouth's 3-1 victory over Preston North End was largely dictated by their offensive efficacy, particularly in the first half. The home team took an aggressive approach, securing two goals in quick succession with precise finishes before halftime, capitalizing on their dominance in ball possession and territorial advantage. This early lead placed Preston under significant pressure, forcing them to chase the game from a difficult position.

The disparity in corner kicks, with Portsmouth earning 11 to Preston's 5, underscores Portsmouth's consistent offensive pressure and ability to maintain the ball in dangerous areas. Despite being effective in set-piece situations, Portsmouth's discipline in staying onside was notable, with zero offsides against them compared to Preston's two. This discipline contributed to their cohesive attacking play and allowed them to sustain pressure without conceding unnecessary turnovers.

Preston's attempts to equalize early in the second half brought the score to 2-1, suggesting resilience and a potential momentum shift. However, Portsmouth’s composure, highlighted by a lack of offsides and only one yellow card, allowed them to maintain control and add a late goal to seal their victory. The limited number of fouls and cards collected indicated Portsmouth's ability to manage the game effectively without resorting to disruptive play, contrasting with Preston's struggle to handle Portsmouth's sustained pressure, particularly through set pieces.

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