Hecky can see the signs of progress from his side

North End boss Paul Heckingbottom had said pre-match that he would learn a lot after the weekend clash against John Eustace's Derby side.

- by George Hodgson

North End's Alfie Devine celebrates scoring the game's goal

Tottenham loanee Alfie Devine scored the crucial goal in Preston's 1-0 win at Pride Park on Saturday.

Devine struck in the 29th minute, flashing a shot from just outside the area into the top corner.

And Heckingbottom felt the contrast between last season's visit - a 2-0 defeat at the start of April -and Saturday's, was clear to see.

While it will be a big boost for the dressing room to get over the line in such an environment, Heckingbottom always had confidence they could deliver.

"Do you know what? I spoke last season about an acceptance in certain situations at Preston," said Heckingbottom.