Last updated on .From the section Championship

Preston's Declan Rudd was the busier of the two goalkeepers at Ewood Park

Daniel Johnson's early strike settled a passionate Lancashire derby as play-off-chasing Preston North End stretched their unbeaten run to 10 games with victory over Blackburn Rovers.

Preston led inside nine minutes when Johnson found the top corner with a fine first-time strike from Lukas Nmecha's pass.

Rovers, who are now winless in seven matches, then had the better of the chances at Ewood Park, but only managed four shots on target.

A combination of some wayward Rovers finishing and smart goalkeeping by Declan Rudd ensured a fourth win in six for North End, who had Darnell Fisher sent off for a second caution deep into stoppage time.

The result from the lunchtime kick-off took Alex Neil's side up to eighth and to within three points of the play-off places, although they slipped down to ninth - four points adrift of the top six after the later games.

Adam Armstrong had already dragged a low shot wide for Blackburn before Preston took the lead with their first chance through Johnson's second goal in as many matches.

Alan Browne curled a shot over for the visitors in a rare attack but the hosts then got on top.

Elliott Bennett was twice off target with attempts, Bradley Dack fired wide and miscued a volley, while Danny Graham had a header well saved by Rudd.

Armstrong also had an attempt cleared off the line and Rovers remained the more likely scorers after the interval.

Preston came close to doubling their lead when Browne and Paul Gallagher linked up, with the latter forcing a fine save by David Raya after a strong surge towards goal.

But the away side did not need the security of a second goal, with Fisher's late dismissal the only blemish as they completed a league double over their local rivals.

Blackburn boss Tony Mowbray:

"The attributes of this team are there on show every week. I think the performance is what we've had all season. At this moment, we're not able to turn them into goals and victories.

"Performance-wise, effort, honesty and commitment were all there. The bit that makes the difference - bit of quality around the edge of the box, the final pass, contact on a finish, obviously wasn't there.

"Ultimately, I can't be too harsh on them. We have to stick together and keep going. If I saw a drop-off on desire and determination to get results, I'd be more concerned.

"I don't see a drop-off but we've hit a patch where we can't win a game. What's the answer? Keep working hard, and it'll turn."

Preston manager Alex Neil:

"To keep the dream alive, we needed to come here and win the game.

"We started really well. From five minutes to 20, we came into the game, played on top of them. The one real quality move we made we scored the goal, which was excellent.

"After that, we sat a little deeper, absorbed pressure and hit Blackburn on the counter. Although they had a lot of the ball and pressure, I don't think they had a lot of clear-cut chances.

"It wasn't vintage Preston shall we say, but the three points are the most important thing."