The visitors took the lead five minutes before half-time through midfielder Josh Harrop, yet Boro drew level immediately. Our Middlesbrough writer Joe Nicholson has dished out his player ratings following the match – scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to see how each Boro player fared against the Lillywhites.
1. Darren Randolph - 6
Had little to do for most of the evening. Unfortunate when the ball bounced off the post for Preston’s goal. 6 Photo: Lewis Storey
2. Anfernee Dijksteel - 6
Recovered from a shaky start and made a couple of forays forward in the second half. 6 Photo: Getty Images
3. Dael Fry - 7
Positioned himself well throughout and looked far more convincing in the air, winning some important battles. 7 Photo: Getty Images
4. Daniel Ayala - 6
Made an decent start and brought some much-needed physicality to Boro’s backline. Made a few reckless challenges though. 6 Photo: Frank Reid