Brad Potts opened the scoring with a powerful strike before Ben Whiteman made it two with a bending free kick before half time. Tom Cannon made it three for PNE as they coasted to their win, with Jerry Yates turning home a late consolation.
The win saw Preston go within five points of the play-off places, with Millwall and Blackburn Rovers – both five points ahead of them in fifth and sixth – still to come this season.
Here’s how we rated the PNE players on the day...
5. Andrew Hughes - 8
Another solid performance from the Welshman coming back into the side. His ability to drive forward down the left helps North End get into better areas and start attacks. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
6. Brad Potts - 7
Took his goal superbly, once it left his boot it flew into the back of the net, from a tight angle and at decent range too. Toiled away down the right despite Blackpool's changes and attacking intent. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
7. Ben Whiteman - 8
A really professional performance from Whiteman who didn't give Blackpool an inch in the midfield. Whether it be off the ball in closing them down or on the ball as he stretched the game, he made life difficult for the visitors. Expertly placed his free kick around the wall too. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
8. Alan Browne - 8
The captain was superb on the day and no one will have wanted to win the game more than him. He barely put a foot wrong all game and played a huge part in the third goal, winning the ball back in defence before setting them on the attack. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd