How the Preston North End players rated in 4-1 Lancashire derby win over Blackburn Rovers

Declan Rudd 8

Retained his place and justified that selection with first-half saves from Dack – twice – and Mulgrew. Handling was good too.

The skipper is steadily making the right-back spot his own, this another soild display as the defence in the main held firm.

Paul Huntington 7

A steady performance at the heart of the back four, won plenty of air although did allow Graham the header for Rovers’ goal.

Ben Davies 8

Like in recent weeks, looked so comfortable on the ball and read the game well. Brings an air of calmness to the defence.

Josh Earl 7

Added his height to the defence when he tucked in next to the centre-backs. Kept busy by Bennett and Nyambe down that side.

STAR MAN: Ben Pearson 8

Stopped Dack playing, that part of an excellent all-round midfield display in which he used the ball well and controlled play.

Paul Gallagher 7

Quietly effective in midfield, pushed up a little higher in the first half to deny Rovers room and got through plenty of work.

Tom Barkhuizen 8

Fired North End into a very early lead with an assured finish and played a big part in the third goal. Was a big threat down the right.

Alan Browne 8

Provided the assists for the first two goals and then got on the scoresheet for the fourth. A real workhorse in midfield.

Callum Robinson 8

Showed good movement and composure to net the second goal and was a real livewire until he limped off with a hamstring strain.

Lukas Nmecha 6

Got somewhat roughed-up by the Blackburn defence, this the type of game he will learn plenty from.

Louis Moult 8

Introduced after an hour and made a big impact. His general play was very good and he scored the third goal and created the fourth.

Brandon Barker 7

Used his pace well as PNE counter-attacked on Rovers in the closing stages.

Ryan Ledson 6

A late replacement for Pearson and slotted in well in the holding midfield role.