Speaking after the demoralising defeat, Lilywhites captain Alan Browne admitted that the side's pre-season hopes of making the play-offs now look to be unlikely to happen.
He stated: "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."
Tomorrow night, 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. Afobe wants to continue career in England
Stoke City outcast Benik Afobe has suggested he's not looking to continue his career abroad, after spending the 2020/21 season thus far on loan with Trabzonspor. He joined the Potters for £12m back in 2018. (The 72) Photo: Lewis Storey
2. Bees want big fee for Toney
Brentford could be set to demand a fee in excess of £30m for star striker Ivan Toney this summer, should they opt to sell their star man. The ex-Peterborough United sensation has scored 24 goals already this season. (Football Insider) Photo: George Wood
3. Boro boss cool on Fletcher's future
Middlesbrough boss Neil Warnock has revealed he is unfazed by the fact forward Ashley Fletcher is waiting until his contract at the club expires to make a decision on his future, claiming he "doesn't blame" the player for his approach. (BBC Sport) Photo: Alex Livesey
4. Red Devils close in on Derby trio
Manchester United look set to spend around £750k on three unnamed starlets from Derby County, as the Rams look to boost their finances. The Rams are still awaiting a potential takeover, after months of speculation. (Team Talk) Photo: Marc Atkins