Sunderland were held to a goalless draw at the Stadium of Light as goal-shy Preston maintained their unbeaten away league record.
Centre-half Aji Alese had to hook a shot from Preston's Ben Whiteman off the line, and then almost teed up an opener for Elliott Embleton, who was inches from converting his low cross in a goalless first half.
Ched Evans' header forced Black Cats goalkeeper Anthony Patterson to tip over and the striker sent another diving header wide.
Patrick Roberts jinked past two Preston defenders, but fired his effort inches off target as the Lilywhites registered their sixth goalless draw of the season.