Speaking after the demoralising loss, Lilywhites captain Alan Browne admitted that the side's pre-season hopes of making the play-offs now look to be unlikely to come to fruition.
He revealed: "I think, being realistic, the play-offs are a long way off. Other than something magnificent happening, which at the moment I don't see.
"It's all about being as strong as we can possibly can. We have a lot of new players and we haven't clicked straight away, and in preparation for next season we need to gel.
"Our ambition all along was the play-offs, but we are not up there. We can't feel sorry for ourselves, because we could easily get dragged into it at the other end if we got on a bad run - we need results."
Tonight, Preston will look to bounce back with a much-needed win, when they take on QPR - a side they beat 2-0 back in October - at Deepdale.
Here are today's biggest transfer stories and the latest team news involving Preston North End and the rest of the Championship, ahead of the midweek action:
1. Cardiff-linked international turns down MLS switch
Cardiff City and QPR-linked defender Declan Gallagher is said to have turned down a move to the MLS, with both New York Red Bulls and Portland Timbers keen. He's set to become a free agent this summer, upon the expiry of his Motherwell contract. (Daily Record) Photo: ANDY BUCHANAN
2. Barnsley man signs new deal
Barnsley have moved to trigger a 12-month extension clause on the contract of forward Victor Adeboyejo. He's scored twice in seven starts for the club this seven, and played a role in the side's promotion to the second tier back in 2019. (BBC Sport) Photo: George Wood
3. Luton-linked ace focused only on Gillingham
Luton Town linked midfielder Kyle Dempsey has revealed he's only focusing on playing well and scoring for Gillingham, who are on track for a mid-table finish in League One. Barnsley were also interested in the 25-year-old last month. (The 72) Photo: James Chance
4. Swans youngster suffers season-ending injury
Swansea City have been forced to send loanee Jordan Morris back to MLS side Seattle Sounders just over a month after arriving at the club, after suffering a season-ending ACL injury. He made five appearances before his deal was terminated. (Club website) Photo: George Wood