Preston set up with a 4-4-2 formation which was both ineffective and batteled out of the game in the first 45 minutes before some improvement and a stunning goal in the second earned Preston a draw.
North End lacked any creativity and this was mainly down to the visitors who got in the faces of the Preston players allowing no time on the ball. Rotherahm's style wasn't attractive but efficient and has worked well for them this season.
The visitors deserved their lead frustrating North End and having the better of the play. The goal was conceded int he first half and was a massive disappointment defensively. Preston had chances to clear and committed defenders rasjly as Rotherham broke down the left at pace slotting home beyond Rudd.
Preston came back into the game almost immediately int he second half thanks to a goal of the season from Joe Garner. The striker controlled a long ball with the outside of his boot before volleying home from outside the box. The keeper stood no chance.
Rotherham had one or two late chances with Rudd keeping Preston in the game but North End looked better equipped when Keane came on to replace Browne to even up the midfield battle and add some extra bite to contest the game.
Holmes was also poor and was replaced by Humphrey but Preston lacked competitiveness and lost the main battles being second to many balls in the first half. Improvement will be needed if they are to secure a place at Wembley although away goals will not be a factor on Thursday night.