Man City leave it late to beat Preston in FA Cup

LONDON, Feb 18 (Reuters) Late goals by striker Georgios Samaras and midfielder Stephen Ireland gave Manchester City a 3-1 comeback win at Preston North End today and a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

Striker David Nugent gave the second division side a shock lead after eight minutes, pouncing from close range after City keeper Nicky Weaver had parried a Michael Ricketts header.

City levelled with a booming half-volley by defender Michael Ball in the 35th minute and Greek striker Samaras got the second goal with a deflected close-range shot in the 84th.

Ireland volleyed the third at the end.

Cup action was continuing today with Fulham hosting Tottenham Hotspur at 1600 GMT in a London derby at Craven Cottage.

REUTERS AB RN2108