Danny Mayor was the only first team regular to start in this afternoon's reserve match against Macclesfield.
The Lilythites took the lead on 30 minutes with a goal from Michael McLellan and doubled the lead 11 minutes later from Luke Clarke.
Macclesfield pulled one back on 55 minutes through Vinny Mukend but three goals in the last five minutes saw PNE go nap. Jamie Proctor made it 3-1 on 84 minutes, with Matt Dudley making it 4-1 three minutes later. Preston made it 5-1 on 89 minutes with a George Miller goal.
Preston remain at the top of the table and are now unbeaten in 12 reserve matches.
1. Preston Pld 14 Pts 31
2. Burnley Pld 15 Pts 30
3. Wrexham Pld 15 Pts 28
Wrexham will regain second place, behind PNE on goal difference if they beat Shrewsbury in Wednesday's reserve match.