Burley buoyed by omen of Preston

1st leg: 15 May (1200 BST) Preston v Derby 2nd leg: 19 May (1945 BST) Derby v Preston Derby 3-1 Preston

Derby boss George Burley reckons an early-season drubbing by Preston could have kick-started the Rams' season.

Derby beat Preston 3-1 on Sunday to book the play-off clash between the two sides but Burley is still scarred by the 3-0 defeat in November.

"We were very poor that day and Preston completely outplayed us," said Burley.

"I would not go as far as saying that defeat was a turning point for us, although after that game our away form has been magnificent."

He added: "There are no real turning points in a season because you are always striving for on-going improvements."

"But the players have shown a lot of character since.

Derby travel to Deepdale on Sunday, with the return leg at Pride Park on Thursday week.

"Going away for the first leg does not matter to us. Nothing will be decided that day," said Burley.