Westley was forced into making changes with various players reporting back with minor injuries after Saturday's defeat to Crawley although some changes were not purely down to injury.
Simonsen came in goal to make his league debut whilst Welsh reverted to right back, Laird on the oppiste side whilst Wright partnered Sherriff in the centre as Huntington was absent.
The midfield was packed with Byrom, Wroe and Beardsley in the middle with the latter playing off Beavon. Hayhurst and Amoo started out wide as Monakana dropped to the bench.
The first half an hour was pretty tight with neither side having chances but within a five minute period the game exploded into life. Beavon had an effort well saved but as the ball bounced around the box Byrom slammed home with his left foot to give Preston the lead.
Only moments later Beavon actually found the net with a curler from 25 yards giving the keeper no chance. Amoo then came close with an effort coming in and the Whites were on top.
The second half was no different except Hartlepool came out a little more leaving gaps exposed at the back. King and Sodje came off the bench and it was the latter who held up the ball allowing a cross to be made which King nodded home.
The game was already over and done with when Laird headed in his first Preston goal from a corner. He then got hsi second after a run down the left beating two players before slamming home from distance.
Saturday's defeat looks to be behind Preston and they will hope to keep the momentum going with a trip to Walsall this weekend.