The facts suggest that Preston's recent form has been poor. Since February there have bene no home wins with a defeat to a poor Fulham side. The only noteable victories were away at a doomed Bolton side and ten man Blackburn.
Grayson changed things at home to MK Dons partly because of three games in a week and partly to give an opportunity to players who needed an opportunity.
Doyle is playing for his future and was partnered up front alongside Beckford who started for the first time this season. Beckford had a chance in the first minute. Instead of slotting through Doyle who was clean through he shot and the keeper saved.
Shortly after Beckford redeemed himself with his first goal of the season in what was effectively his first start. Preston need a fit Beckford next season if they are going to improve on a solid first season back in the Championship.
North End controlled hte first half but could not add to their early goal. The MK Dons had never won a match between the sides in nine previous attempts and based on the first half this was not going to change.
The game turned in the second half with Preston very much on the beach with the towels out. It was down there with the first half against Bolton, periods away at Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday as the poorest play of the season.
MK Dons got back in the game when a left foot cross cum shot was only palmed away by Lindegaard. Maynard tapped home. The visitors gained confidence and thre everything at Preston with their Championship status on the line.
The game changed again late on when a flick on put Doyle through. The keeper brought the forward down and was sent off for being the last man. As MK Dons had made all three substitutes, striker Alex Revell went between the sticks.
Graner, on as a substitute for Beckford, took the penalty but it was at a comfortable height which was well saved by the stand in keeper. Preston pushed forward for the winner.
Robinson missed a gilt edged chance when he was put through and North End just seemed to lack any ability to put the ball in the back of the net.
The game ended level with Grayson stressing how disappointed he was with the second half performance. North End now travel to Birmingham on Tuesday before a home game at Burnley on Saturday. It seems that some of them believe the season is already over.