It was a close game at the Bet365 Stadium but North End’s no.9 jumped the highest to glance a header from the near post to the far post, coming off the upright to find the back of the net.
The win ended a run of three consecutive defeats for the Lilywhites and shot them back into the top half of the Championship table.
Here’s how we rated the players on the day…
. Ched wins it!
Preston North End's Ched Evans (2nd left) celebrates scoring his side's first goal Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
. Freddie Woodman - 7
Pulled off a vital save in the first half to keep the scores level, giving North End the platform to win the game at the end. His impressive season continues. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
. Bambo Diaby - 7
Although he looks unconvincing at times, and did go wandering a little early on, he took to the game well and performed admirably given it was only his second league start all season and his first in four months. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
. Liam Lindsay - 7
Another solid showing from one of the most consistent players in the PNE squad. Back in the middle of defence, he looked more assured and settled, coming to the aid of Diaby once or twice. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
. Andrew Hughes - 7
Although he's had a lot more game time than Bambo Diaby this season, it could still have been tough to come straight back into the XI on his return from injury but he looked like he was never away. His fitness was fantastic as was his timing and challenging for the ball in the air. Photo: Richard Sellers
1. Ched wins it!
Preston North End's Ched Evans (2nd left) celebrates scoring his side's first goal Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
2. Freddie Woodman - 7
Pulled off a vital save in the first half to keep the scores level, giving North End the platform to win the game at the end. His impressive season continues. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
3. Bambo Diaby - 7
Although he looks unconvincing at times, and did go wandering a little early on, he took to the game well and performed admirably given it was only his second league start all season and his first in four months. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
4. Liam Lindsay - 7
Another solid showing from one of the most consistent players in the PNE squad. Back in the middle of defence, he looked more assured and settled, coming to the aid of Diaby once or twice. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns