It was a much-needed clean sheet after the 5-0 drubbing by Brentford a week earlier, their defending having to be good in the first half when hosts Stoke were on top.
The Lilywhites are now in 17th place but 10 points clear of Rotherham who are 22nd in the division.
Here are the player ratings for the North End side.
Here are the player ratings for the North End side.
5. Tom Barkhuizen 7
Looked more comfortable at right wing-back than he had done on the left in the last couple of games. Came more into the game as an attacking outlet in the second half. Photo: Camerasport
6. Ben Whiteman 6
In a creative sense wasn't involved a great deal but he did a key job keeping a close watch on Stoke's attacking midfielder Nick Powell. Photo: Camerasport
7. Ryan Ledson 7
Better in the second half as PNE emerged as an attacking unit. Had a couple of shots and was on set-piece duty. Photo: Camerasport
8. Alan Browne 6
Off the boil first half but had far more of an influence in the second half. Was brought down by Souttar for the red card but wasted a great late shooting chance. Photo: Camerasport