North End have had poor starts in a number of games this season. Simon Grayson accepted the share of the blame on Saturday as Preston started with a disjointed formation.
Without a recognised right back, preston set up with a back three. Cunningham slotted in as the third centre back whilst Spurr was given a start at left wing back with Horgan asked to play defensively on the right. McGeady tucked into a tight three in midfield.
The game was poor in the first half much due to Preston trying to find their feet with many square pegs in round holes. QPR took the lead when Lualua back heeled a cross. Preston didn't look like coming back until a moment of excellence just before the break.
Out of nowhere McGeady found himself at the edge of the box. The winger created some space and moved the ball onto his right foot where he curled in a superlative effort. It ws undeserved but his magic is often the difference for Preston.
The second half saw a singificant improvement. Cunningham switched to right back as Preston returned to a 4-4-2 formation. Horgan and McGeady could then roam free down the wings.
Preston should have scored several goals. Robinson had one disallowed for offside and the youngster struggled all afternoon to say behind the back foot.
The winner came when Hugill had a shot parried by the keeper. Unlike last week Hugill was alert and managed to smash home the rebound to give Preston the lead.
The visitors were then reduced to ten men when Freeman was caught stamping on a Preston player by the fourth official. Holloway complained but the dismissal was justified.
Preston moved up the table and to within six points of the top six thanks to Aiden McGeady.