The Whites faced bottom of the league Chesterfield in their Northern Area Semi-Final tie and could have been behind within a minute as Chesterfield broke down the right.
North End soon took hold of the game although at times were sitting too deep in midfield with Alexander absent for long periods during the game. His partner, Doyle, was man of th ematch and looked like the only person capable of unlocking the visitor's defence.
Preston took the lead from a corner which McCombe headed home at the near post thanks to slack marking. Preston should have pushed home but less than ten minutes later, Westcarr had a deflected shot which cruelly flew past Stuckmann.
Chesterfield came more into the game especially in the second half and looked dangerous. Preston pushed forward towards the end but rarely made the keeper work save for a fine long range effort from Mellor who also had another close attempt.
Brown bizarelly had no forwards on the bench and made no changes despite Daley itching to come on. Only he knows why as the game then headed to penalties.
Stuckmann saved the first penalty and Preston took the lead but misses from Mr Reliable, Alexander who hit the bar and Coutts saw Chesterfield through 4-2 on penalties.