Osmajic Scores as Preston Dominate Burnley in FA Cup Amidst Controversy

Milutin Osmajic was among the scorers as Preston North End, two-time FA Cup winners, comfortably defeated local rivals Burnley 3-0 in their FA Cup fifth-round tie at Deepdale. The match was overshadowed by pre-match tensions stemming from a racism allegation made against Osmajic in a previous league encounter between the two clubs.

The build-up to the game was dominated by the accusation that Osmajic had racially abused Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri during a Championship match two weeks prior. Osmajic denies the allegation. Hannibal was not included in the Burnley squad for the cup tie, while Osmajic started for Preston. In a pointed gesture, Burnley players refused to shake Osmajic’s hand during the pre-match formalities.

Osmajic was immediately involved, shooting wide in the opening seconds. He then opened the scoring on the stroke of halftime, collecting a Brad Potts through ball and finishing clinically past Vaclav Hladky. Osmajic celebrated by cupping his hands to his ears in the direction of the Burnley supporters.

Robbie Brady doubled Preston’s lead with a superb 25-yard free-kick, only the second goal Burnley had conceded since December 21st. Will Keane added a third in the 73rd minute, poking home from close range. Burnley’s defensive record, previously boasting 12 consecutive clean sheets, was shattered as they conceded three goals in a single game for the first time this season.

Preston’s victory sees them reach the FA Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1966, with their fans chanting “We’re going to Wembley” after the final whistle.

Burnley’s Focus Shifts Back to Championship Promotion Push

Burnley manager Scott Parker made nine changes to his starting lineup, clearly prioritizing the Championship promotion race. His side, disjointed and off the pace, rarely threatened Preston goalkeeper Freddie Woodman. Manuel Benson fired over the bar, and Luca Koleosho had a shot cleared off the line and another flash wide, in Burnley rare threatening moves.

The Football Association is still investigating the racism claim against him. If he’s found guilty he will face a minimum six-game ban.

The defeat allows Burnley to concentrate on their league campaign, with a trip to Cardiff City scheduled for Tuesday evening. This was the 144th meeting between the two Lancashire rivals, two pioneering clubs who first met on the inaugural day of the Football League in 1888. However, it was their first-ever FA Cup encounter. Both Championship games between them this season had ended goalless.