The 28-year-old was airborne when volleying Robbie Brady’s delivery past Luton Town goalkeeper Ethan Horvath to open the scoring in the 18th minute.
And the Lilywhites, who have yet to concede a goal in three outings in the league this term, fought tooth and nail to cling on to a first success at Kenilworth Road since 1999.
North End — whose previous fixtures against Wigan Athletic and Hull City had finished goalless — climbed to seventh in the table ahead of their midweek meeting with Rotherham United at Deepdale.
Here are PNE reporter Tom Sandells’ player ratings.
1. Freddie Woodman 7
Luton's biggest problem on the day was hitting the target but anything that did was dealt with well by PNE's 'keeper. Deep into stoppage time he came flying out to punch the ball clear and relieve the pressure - and there was plenty of it. Photo: CameraSport -
2. Jordan Storey 8
North End's back line continues to shine and so does Jordan Storey, was beaten a couple of times on the outside but would get back to make the tackle. Did so well to stand up to the Luton attacks and powerful forwards. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
3. Liam Lindsay 9
Has the benefit of being right down the middle of the defence but in being there comes more pressure. His consistency and control in the heart of the defence is setting the standard. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
4. Andrew Hughes 8
The Welshman did as he does as he barely put a foot wrong all afternoon. Even got to the Luton six yard box to power a header at goal that was blocked. Photo: Tony Marshall