Last updated on .From the section Championship

Preston's Josh Harrop scored from 20 yards out to equalise for the Lilywhites

A superb volley from Josh Harrop cancelled out Adam Armstrong's early finish as Preston North End drew with Lancashire rivals Blackburn Rovers.

Armstrong skipped past Patrick Bauer and linked up with Lewis Holtby before sliding the ball past Declan Rudd to put the hosts in front inside the first five minutes at Ewood Park.

An injury to Rovers midfielder Corry Evans halted the game for several minutes, as medical staff stretchered off the Northern Ireland international following a challenge from Preston captain Tom Clarke.

The pause in play sparked life into Alex Neil's side, who grabbed an equaliser when Harrop rifled a volley into the roof of the net from the edge of the box.

A great save by North End goalkeeper Rudd prevented the hosts from taking the lead when Holtby fired towards the top-left corner after 30 minutes.

Both defences remained solid in the second half before Armstrong's cross was glanced by substitute Danny Graham onto the post.

Tosin Adarabioyo then almost grabbed a late winner for the hosts but Rudd brilliantly turned his effort wide to ensure a point for the Lilywhites.

Preston's new signing Scott Sinclair made his debut in the final 10 minutes of the game and North End fans will hope the forward can help end their side's run of five league games without a win.

Blackburn Rovers manager Tony Mowbray told BBC Radio Lancashire:

"It was a typical derby game right from the first whistle to the last, nobody gave an inch.

"I think on the balance we had the better chances, we threatened their goal more but they scored a wonder goal.

"It was an attritional game as you might expect, a local derby."

Preston manager Alex Neil:

"He's (Harrop) one of those you always want to put in the team, but sometimes when you play the teams that can move the ball really well, defensively we still need to do a bit of work with him.

"That's something we need to improve on. But what he does give us is a real threat going the other way.

"In recent weeks, we've struggled to score and then he smashes that in and it's a stunning strike.

"The important thing for us is we needed to get a point on the board, especially after the last two home games. We are a momentum-based team. Those points are big for us because we are a relatively young group and that point will hopefully spur us on."