Preston vs West Brom: BBC Radio Lancashire Commentary with Andy Bayes and Alan Kelly

Match date: 18 April 2026

Preston vs West Brom: BBC Radio Lancashire Commentary with Andy Bayes and Alan Kelly

Fans tuning into BBC Radio Lancashire will have the privilege of experienced commentary as Preston North End takes on West Bromwich Albion in a crucial English Championship clash at Deepdale. The match, scheduled for Saturday afternoon, will be brought to life by main commentator Andy Bayes and co-commentator Alan Kelly, two voices deeply embedded in the region's football culture and with extensive pedigree in covering Lancashire football.

Andy Bayes has established himself as one of the most respected commentators in regional football broadcasting, bringing decades of experience covering Preston North End matches. His partnership with Alan Kelly, a former footballer with significant experience in the professional game, creates a compelling dynamic that blends contemporary match analysis with expert insight. Kelly's background as a player provides authentic perspective on the tactical nuances and physical demands unfolding on the pitch.

The match represents a significant moment for both clubs. Preston North End currently sit 13th in the Championship table with 14 wins, 15 draws and 13 losses, accumulating 57 points across the season. They arrive at Deepdale following a positive result, having defeated Charlton Athletic 2-1 away at The Valley, with Lewis Dobbin and Brad Potts on the scoresheet. The Lancashire side boasted 55% possession in that encounter and registered five shots on target, demonstrating the attacking intent that will be crucial against the Baggies.

West Bromwich Albion, meanwhile, come to Deepdale as the visitors in a more precarious position. With 11 wins, 13 draws and 18 losses, they occupy a lower league position with just 46 points. Their recent form has been concerning, winning only 2 of their last 18 matches. Their previous outing saw them draw 0-0 at home against Millwall at The Hawthorns, a result that will have done little to ease mounting pressure on the Albion faithful.

History favours the visitors in this particular fixture. West Bromwich Albion have claimed consecutive victories over Preston, achieving both wins when hosting at The Hawthorns by scorelines of 2-1 and 3-1. Looking at the broader head-to-head record over the past decade, West Brom have dominated, recording six triumphs against Preston's two victories, with two draws completing the ledger.

For listeners following the action through BBC Radio 5 Live, Shourjo Sarkar will provide reporting duties, whilst those tuning to the Soccer Saturday coverage will hear from Rob Jones. WBA Radio and WBA TV viewers will benefit from the expertise of Gez Mulholland on main commentary alongside Andy Johnson, whilst the world feed will be anchored by Will Robinson. talkSPORT listeners will receive reporting from Ian Stringer.

Individual performances will prove decisive. Preston can draw upon the goalscoring prowess of Brad Potts, Alfie Devine and Milutin Osmajic, each of whom has recorded 2 goals this season, whilst Lewis Dobbin leads the assists chart with 3 contributions. West Brom will look to A. Heggebo, their leading scorer with 9 goals and 3 assists this campaign. The contrast in attacking quality and recent form between these two sides will likely prove the decisive factor in what promises to be a fascinating Championship encounter at Deepdale.

Article generated: 18 April 2026, 15:13 GMT