Emil Riis scored in the first half before Cameron Archer doubled their lead, with a late Andre Gray penalty pulling one back for the visitors with one of the last kicks of the game.
After a slow start, Ryan Lowe’s men got their game going and were deserving winners on home soil.
Here’s how we rated PNE on the day.
13. Sean Maguire - 7
Looked bright after coming on for Emil Riis and linked up well on a couple of occasions with Cameron Archer. Nicked the ball off the last defender to bear down on goal and should have done better before losing possession. Photo: CameraSport - Ian Cook
14. Josh Murphy - 6
Did not get into the game too much, coming on for Cunningham in a half wing back, half forward role. Looks like he might need more minutes to get into a rhythm at North End. Photo: CameraSport -
15. Mikey O'Neill - 6
A nice occasion for the academy product to get out onto the Deepdale pitch. One that is clearly highly rated by boss Ryan Lowe and there may be more game time to come between now and the end of the season. Photo: PNEFC/Ian Robinson