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Some of the Blackpool players clearly seemed to tire as the game went on in what was a typical physical derby. In particular Scotland international midfielder Charlie Adam - so often at the hub of everything good in the first half - looked sadly out of sorts in the second.
Blackpool had a magnificent start with perhaps the quickest televised goal of the season coming after just 23 seconds.
Adam skied the ball into the North End half and Ben Burgess flighted a header to Billy Clarke, who struck a superb curling shot past a stunned Andy Lonergan.
The Seasiders continued to create chances with winger Hameur Bouazza proving a real handful for the North End defence. A Bouazza cross almost produced a second for Clarke whose 11th minute shot on the turn was saved by Lonergan.
A screamer from Adam brought another good save from Lonergan before Clarke, who had his best game for the Seasiders, clipped the outside of the post with one shot before thumping another against the bar.
North End did conjure up some opportunities with Ross Wallace forcing a good save from Matt Gilks.
And it was Wallace who eventually levelled matters for Preston firing in a stunning free-kick from 20 yards out, his passionate celebrations with the travelling fans earning the Scot a yellow card.
North End were far more influential in the second half with Richard Chaplow's close marking of Adam removing the Seasiders' main threat.
The home side still had opportunities in front of goal with Burgess missing two great chances, before Chris Brown blasted over at the other end with just Gilks to beat.