JACKSON Irvine was given a more attacking role at Preston and rewarded his manager with his sixth goal of the season.
Nigel Clough unveiled a new 4-4-1-1 system at Deepdale which saw Albion end their goal famine and bag a well deserved point with a 1-1 draw.Irvine played just behind striker Chris O'Grady and gave Albion the lead with a well-taken first half strike.
He said: "We came out of the blocks flying and were perhaps disappointed we didn't make it two or three.Â
"I'm not usually considered to be someone who gets among the goals. I'm happy to have scored another one and that's something I'm working on as I move higher and higher up the pitch. If you want to play in that position you have to contribute by creating chances and scoring goals.Â
"I have that freedom now. It's a  new role for me but one I'm getting used to more and more. I was lucky to get another goal but perhaps could have a couple more in the first few minutes."
Nigel Clough paid tribute to the progress being made by the Australian international after the game and the way he has taken the Championship in his stride.
Irvine said: "All players want to progress as far as they can whether that means taking another step up in this country or playing abroad or international football. I'm just enjoying myself so much learning and playing at this level. It's the best step I could have taken and the club has done so much for me in terms of giving me that confidence and that freedom to express myself. We have a great group of characters here who want to help each other and progress."