Sean Maguire gave PNE a second-minute lead but the Bluebirds swung the game in their favour after the break with goals from Mark McGuinness and substitute James Collins.
It was a second successive loss for North End, following-on from the 3-0 reverse at Nottingham Forest before the international break.
Here are the PNE player ratings from the clash, with Alan Browne our man on the match.
9. Greg Cunningham 6
Recalled at left wing-back. Got up the pitch well to start with but in the second half got pinned back. Subbed in the 68th minute. Photo: Camerasport
10. Sean Maguire 7
The Irishman opened the scoring early on with an instinctive piece of striker’s play and his display was encouraging. Photo: Rich Linley/Camerasport
11. Emil Riis 5
Had a couple of half chances in the first half but otherwise didn’t impact the game. Switched wider as PNE chased the game. Photo: Rich Linley/Camerasport
12. Josh Earl 5
Replaced Cunningham as part of a double change. Got forward into crossing positions a couple of times. Photo: Rich Linley/Camerasport