There isn't one issue to pinpoint as the problem but a culmination of problems which resulted in a one sided result in a game that should have been far more even.
Typically North End play better against the top end teams but this season they have struggled against the current top six save for the win against Huddersfield.
Grayson was somewhat hamstrung in attacking options with his two most creative players, Gallagher and McGeady, out injured. This was no excuse for the result but playing one big lad up top with Robinson in support may work against sides lower in the table such as the last three games, it was never going to impact against a play off chasing side.
It also didn't help that Grayson left Bailey Wright on the bench as he refuses to sign a new contract. The defence was far weaker without him in the side.
Preston started slowly against Burton last month and did so against Leeds. The only trouble is that Leeds are far mopre clinical and a more established Championship side who are now well organised under Monk.
The game was practically over within twenty five minutes. There may have been a shout for handball in the build up for the first goal but that was almost irrelevant as Preston failed at basic defending allowing Roofe to hehad home from close range.
The second soon followed as the whole left side of the defence went walkaouts allowing Leeds to roam free with Sacko concerting past the helpless Maxwell.
North End managed to get back in the game with a well exectued finish from Vermijl just inside the box but the home side soon self destructed again.
Clarke was awful and was turned inside and out before Doukara shot from a narrow angle. Maxwell should have done better but it hit his elbow and squirmed across the line.
Preston attacked after the break but without a proven goal threat any attack was powderpuff at best. Browne is not a Championship midfielder and Johnson along woith Robinson were well below their best.
Beckford and Hughill came on after the hour. The former was kneed in th back and the refereee made some questionable decision including a potential handball in the visitor's box and a potential second yellow for the Leeds centre back who was constantly fouling Makienok. This would have overshadowed the deficiencies of the Preston back line.
The Beckford sending off will take the heaslines. When pulled own he reacted by kicking out. It was a straight red and he faces a four game suspension. His future at the club is now running out.
Leeds took advantage of the ten men as Hernandez scored a fourth. In reality it probably wasn't a 4-1 game. Preston barely put up a fight and Leeds were not pushed for the victory.
The season is now halfway over. Preston sit in midtable which is an accurate reflection of their performances. The sit comfortably above the bottom few teams and barring a dramatic collapse Preston should find the additional 18 points which see them safe.
Unfortunately, North End lack strength in depth especially going forwards and without a proven goalscorer will fall distinctly short of the play off chasing teams.
There have been a few occasions where Preston have let themselves down this season. The Leeds game can be added to Brentford and Newcastle in the Cup. This, added to the lack of depth, will means tha Preston are unable to mount any serius charge up towards the higher end of the table.
North End are more comfortable than where they were 12 months ago and progress has been made under Grayson but it is clear what needs to be done to mprove further.