Preston were almost behind early on when Kitson was tripped by St Ledger but Lawrenc's spot kick was saved by Lonergan. Mellor then bagged a double before half time to give North End a two goal lead.
Henderson came on for Lonergan at the start of the second period and he was forced into action on a numbe rof occassions. Cresswell got a goal back late on but Stoke could not force an equaliser.