This was always going to be a tight game with both teams having something to play for. The game wasn't full of chances but Preston will feel like they could have done more to at least get a point.
Robinson, Nemcha and Maguire started as the front three. Preston had a couple of chances early on where they missed opportunities that could have changed the game.
The visitors were always in contention although Preston's defence held firm. It was in the first half that the deadlock was broken thanks to a little bit of fortune.
A corner was curled in towards a congested six yard box. The resulting header was tipped onto the bar by Rudd but it was McGoldrick who was first to the rebound to bundle over the line.
Robinson had Preston's best chance of the game early in the second half when he was played clean through on the left side of the box but again he couldn't finish.
A lack of composure in front of goal cost Preston and it is something North End will have to build on if they are to improve on what is destined to be another mid-table finish.