It is reflective of Preston's status in football over the past 50 plus years that they have failed to progress beyond the League Cup Fourth Round. In fact a Quarter Final in any major cup competition has seemed a pipe dream in recent times.
It is true that whilst Preston have played outside the top flight for 60 years they have had moments in the cup but victories against top flight teams over the past few decades are few and far between.
The game against Liverpool was always going to be tough despite the visitors making wholesale changes to the side that humbled Manchester United.
In fairness, Preston's system for once suited the occasion. The back five soaked up the pressure and North End countered on the break. Liverpool had much of the ball but lacked any penetration.
Preston had the best two chances of the first half but yet again quality was missing. Potts who has had a significantly woeful time at Deepdale was played clear through only to fire a tame shot straight at the keeper.
Maguire, a striker who simply has a distinctly poor striking record, was given a clear chance six yards out. He only had to put the ball in the corner but instead fired close to the keeper who saved.
With those two chances Preston's opportunity had gone. Better players would have converted but that's all ifs and maybes. Liverpool came out stronger in the second period.
The visitors actually scored from their first shot on goal. Minamino scored from close range with a cute finish that Maguire surely dreams of.
Origi sealed the victory late on after he flicked into the net from close range. Preston were by no means outplayed and the performance was certainly an improvement from the defeat at Blackpool but it will be the league performances by which the players and management are judged.