Preston had returned to some form as the injury crisis showed signs of clearing up. QPR at home followed by Burton away presented an opportunity to claw back some ground on the top six but the visitors proved a tough nut to crack.
The first half was one to forget save for the sending off of Jamie Mackie who went in late and over the top on Tom Clarke who was starting the game for North End.
QPR shut up shop after the red card and Preston lacked any idea of how to break their opponents down. The second half was better. Harrop and O'Connor came on at half time and the former took his chance with his creative flair.
Preston were still unable to break down the QPR wall and it appeared the game would end goalless until Gallagher cut open the defence with a through ball to Hugill. The young striker has missed one on one situations in the past but toe poked home under the advancing keeper.
There was a huge sigh of relief as the game was dour with Preston being well below par. Neil even tried chaging formations to a 4-4-2 but North End seemed to lack any capability going forward which is a worrying sign.
North End moved up the table albeit the win was less than convincing. Preston travel to Burton where they will face a tough test against a team who are in need of points.