It was inevitable that after three straight losses Grayson would return to a more defensive line up to get some points on the board. Preston lined up at Loftus Road with a 5-3-2 formation.
Tommy Spurr made his debut at left wing back with Humphrey starting on the opposite flank. Cunningham moved inside to partner Wright and Clarke in the middle.
Welsh was recalled to anchor a midfield that contained Johnson and Gallagher. The latter was extremely good last season when playing in a middle three with someone doing the tackling for him. Robinson and Beckford started up front.
Preston shut dopwn QPR who found it difficult to break down the yellow wall in front of them. Robinson and Beckford caused problems up front with pace.
The goal came courtesy of a shot from the right hand side of the box. It seemed to be blocked in the centre and Beckford managed to divert home past the keeper.
The second half was a similar affair but Preston doubled their lead when Robinson, who had another good game, forced Onuoha to put into his own net.
North End held out for a deserved victory and their first points of the season.