PRESTON manager Alex Neil has defended goalkeeper Chris Maxwell after his red card at Ipswich.
The Welsh international was send off for two bookable offences with PNE midfielder Paul Gallagher forced to go in goal as the Lillywhites held on for a share of the points.
Maxwell, who forced his way back into the first team after beginning the campaign on the bench, also gave away the penalty that led to the home side's goal, picking up his first yellow.
Speaking after the game Neil said: "We use Maxi as a sweeper-keeper. Like anything, when you're making those decisions there's a thin line between making a really good one and making a really bad one.
"It's a bit like a striker, if he gets an opportunity and scores it's a great decision but if you miss you miss you've done something wrong. "It's no different all over the pitch.
He added: "Maxi's disappointed and has apologised to his team-mates for affecting the game in a negative manner. He's disappointed and frustrated he's been sent off."