Preston's comeback win inspired by substitutes against Hull at the weekend was soon forgotten as they came back down to earth against West Brom.
Gallagher who scored from the spot at the weekend dropped to the bench which is not unusual given the number of games coming up in a short period of time. Browne was given a start after his goal at the weekend.
There was still no room for Stockley as Neil persisted with an out of form Maguire on the left in place of Harrop whilst an ineffective Nugent played up front on his own.
The game was over by half time. Some might say it was over when Robson-Kanu netted after six minutes. Whilst West Browm were always in charge it was poor defending which allowed the hosts to open the scoring.
North End rarely threatened with two off target headers from Nugent being the only real threat. The home side doubled the lead before the break when Livermore converted from inside the box.
Fisher was sent off for a rash challenge on former colleague Callum Robinson in the second half. Preston played out over 25 minutes with ten men and were fortunate not to concede more as Rudd kept the visitors in the game.
North End have a miserable record at West Brom. It is clear that there was a gap in class between the sides. The home team are almost certain for promotion whilst North End are struggling to keep in the top six.
Preston were fortunate that other sides dropped points but with a tough away test against Fulham on Saturday it will only be a matter of time that Preston are caught if they continue to put in poor displays like last night.