Preston looked to be in control of the game early on but a defensive mistake cost Preston dear. Mawene was being chased down by Luke Varney. The centre back had an easy option to pass back to Lonergan but the keeper offered no help whatsoever and stayed on his line. In a moment of hesitation Mawene lost the ball and fouled Varney inside the area. Ex-Burnley frontman Andy Gray then slotted home the penalty.
Preston had most of the possession in the first half with Mellor having two gilt edge chances to level the scores. He was put through in two one on one situations but both times Weaver saved.
Charlton rarely threatened except for when Preston made defensive errors. The visitors could have doubled their lead when Preston backed off and allowed the away team space to shoot resulting in a shot that rebounded off the post.
Preston came out more positive in the second period and pulled the game round. A ball was played into the box which Mellor latched onto and slammed home from close range.
The home side could sense victory and another close range shot from Nicholson gave the Whites a much deserved lead.
Charlton played on the break and caused trouble on a number of occassions with Lonergan forced to make a fine save tipping over the bar from a close range header.
Preston continued to use the space and passed the ball well but could not find a third goal. Irvine will want to cut out the defensive mistakes but all in all will behappy with the performance with maintains their good start to the season.