This was hard watch for most in the gorund but the away support were delighted at full time as Preston secured their first away victory of the season thanks to a solitary goal.
Both teams started the day on 13 points. Preston had nmost of the possession int he first period with Birmingham content to sit back and try to hit North End on the break.
The first goal was always goingto be vital and Preston grabbed the lead int he first half. Harrop set up Maguire who went on a run heading towards the bix. He was brought down just outside the area.
Gallagher took the resulting free kick hitting a low shot curling around the wall. The ball rebounded out and Maguire was there to tap home from close range.
Birmingham came out more in the second period but rarely troubled Rudd. They had a goal chalked off for offside when Gimenez tapped home but he was clearly beyond the last defender.
North End could have secured the victory as they played on the break late on. They were unable to convert but still hung on for the win which sees them move into third place only one point off leaders Leeds and Swansea.