Championship wrap: Parrott on the mark, McCarthy's Blackpool lose again

Republic of Ireland international Troy Parrott marked his first start for Preston since September with an 81st-minute penalty to earn his team an unlikely 1-1 draw against Championship play-off hopefuls Luton.

The on-loan Tottenham striker had managed two goals in 18 appearances coming into the game, but his late strike, blasted high into the net from 12 yards, earned the 10 men a share of the spoils.

The visitors were in control for long periods against a Preston side low on confidence and on a run of five straight home defeats before Wednesday.

Preston's task grew in size when Ben Whiteman was dismissed for a crude tackle on Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu five minutes after half-time.

Luton finally scored the goal to reflect their dominance when Carlton Morris met Amari'i Bell's deep delivery to head home his 12th league goal of the campaign.

Jordan Clark shot narrowly wide as Luton sought to press home their man advantage, but Tom Lockyer was penalised for handling Parrott's drive following a rare Preston advance.

He dusted himself down to secure a draw.

Greg Cunningham and Alan Browne also started for Preston.

Jayson Molumby was denied being the West Brom match-winner as Ben Brereton Diaz scored a late equaliser for Blackburn Rovers.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder came off the bench to nod his team in front in the 73rd minute, but Diaz converted a free-kick at the death to ensure Rovers left the Hawthorns with a point.

Dara O'Shea captained the Baggies from centre-half.

Blackpool remain at the bottom of the table as Mick McCarthy's strugglers lost 2-1 away to Swansea.

The Tangerines had given themselves reason for optimism after grinding out back-to-back draws following three successive defeats, but finished the game with 10 men and