Republic of Ireland international Eddie Nolan found himself back in the side on Tuesday and managed to repay Alan Irvine for his slection with an assist.
The former Blackburn Rovers defender got to the by-line, managed to keep the ball in play before finding Mellor on the edge of the six-yard box.
Mellor's header went in the far corner via a deflection to give the Lilywhites a 20th minute lead...
...before being ambushed by his teammates.
As well as Eddie Nolan finding himself back in first team action, Liam Chilvers was also back in the starting 11. The former Arsenal trainee had found himself playing second fiddle to Youl Mawene and Neill Collins.
With North End seemingly able to see out the first half with the lead, former Sunderland full back Michael Gray levelled for the home side with a stunning free-kick.
However, mid-way through the second half Jon Parkin put Preston back in front with a side-footed shot from the edge of the area.
The Beast in full flight celebrates making it 2-1 to the visitors with a goal that wrapped up the points for North End who now find themselves just two points off the automatic spots.