The Whites had struggled away from home in comparison to a healthy return at home. A win against a poor Wigan side followed the last away outing where North End overcame a Barnsley side at the wrong end of the table. Neil will hope to continue this form against Stoke in midweek.
Maguire was recalled to the side to play in the lone front role whilst Josh Harrop can count himself very unlucky to be left ont he bench after a fabulous month which saw him nominated for Championship player of the month.
Wigan had the first chance in the first few minutes but it was Preston who struck first. Pearson sliced open the home defence allowing Johnson time and space in the box to pick out Brakhuizen who tapped home from close range.
North End then had the majority of the ball in the remainder of the first half. Maguire had a header well saved but Preston still looked like they were going to give chances away.
The lead was doubled soon after the break after a sweeping move saw a ball played to Johnson in the box. He converted with his left foot for the two goal lead.
Wigan were soon back in the game when Dunkley bundled over from close range. It was nervy at times but Preston managed to hold out with Rudd having to make one real save to keep the home side out.
Preston jumped into the top six. There are 15 games remaining and North End sit on 50 points. A further eight wins will likely guarantee a play off spot but that is no easy task in this division.