SATURDAY'S FOOTBALL THE LEAGUE. PRESTON NORTH END V. ASTON VILLA At Deepdale, before 1,000 spectators. The ground was in a condition of puddle, and rain fell heavily. Gordon and N. J. Ross, on the home side, were replaced by Metcalf and Howarth. The visitors were well represented, and kicked off uphill. The game at once became very fast, both sides putting in all they knew but what with the pools of water and the mud, dribbling was out of the question, and the players were soon bedaubed. The home team were early seen to advantage, and Warner more than once cleverly saved. Evans tackled very cleverly, but after twenty minutes' play Campbell recorded the first goal for the home team from a well-placed shot by Hendry. The Villa worked harder than ever, Hodgetts and the left-wing showing to advantage, but the home defence was safe. In half an hour Crossans scored a second goal for Preston, who crossed over two goals to the good. Soon after crossing over Trainor saved twice in a scrimmage, and Warner was cheered for fine defence. Metcalf scored from a scrimmage, and North End continued to have the best of matters, Gallocher again put the ball through, but he was ruled off-side. However, M'Kenna centred, and Crossans made the home score four. There were some smart runs on both sides, and A. Brown, with a long shot, was credited with a goal, though the Prestonians averred that the ball was not through by a yard. Notwithstanding the very heavy ground both sides kept the pace up, but North End came out the winners. Result: Preston North End 4 goals, Aston Villa 1 goal.