Westley made four changes with three enforced. Ben Davies replaced by Buchanan was the only forced replacement. Keane returned to the bench but Beavon and King were ruled out through injury although not serious.
Around 250 fans made the long trip to Colchester which has always been a tricky destination for Preston even in the Moyes' days. Westley will point to Holmes hitting the bar and Proctor missing a chance but atthe end of the day Colchester broke through and scored the solitary goal.
The Whites are now only five points off the drop zone with Oldham winning post Dickov and Bury securing a surprising victory. North End are deep in trouble as they face Yeovil tomorrow who have won their last six in a row before promotion chasing Bournemouth come to Deepdale on Saturday.
Bailey Wright will be suspended for tomorrow's game after picking up two yellow cards at Colchester meaning Westley will have to tinker again with an already unsettled defence.
The fans are becoming wrestless and despite the ownership wanting to give Westley time it is fast becoming apparent that Preston are becoming embroiled in a relegation dogfight if they continue with the current state of affairs.