PRESTON will be glad their league trip to Gillingham is over for this season after history repeated itself.

Last season, the Gills put four past North End and this time they took they one step further with a five goal haul in Preston's worst league result under manager David Moyes.

It was not the start the play-off finalists needed and extra training yesterday was the order of the day as Moyes looked to put things right for Walsall's visit next week.

"We didn't get into the game and they played very well," said the North End

boss.

"There is not a lot of positives to take out of the game but I haven't said much to the players as I need to reflect on it. I could regret some of the things I say.

"I am clearly not pleased with our performance. They overpowered us. The only comfort for me is that we lost here badly last season and went on to reach the play-offs."

Moyes may have a couple of new faces for the visit of the Saddlers as he looks to rebuild his side's confidence.

This looks likely to include striker Kevin Gallacher who it is hoped will have shaken off a calf strain and can sign a one-month deal with a view to a longer contract.

"We can see we need to strengthen the squad and I will be working on that," said Moyes.

"We have still got plenty of games to improve on the result but this is not a nice feeling."

Gillingham went ahead in the 14th minute after Iffy Onoura's ball was missed by Colin Murdock, David Lucas saved the shot and it fell to Marcus Browning who fired home the opener.

Three minutes later it was two when Barry Ashby found the top corner of the net.

Preston still had half chances to get back in it through David Healy but three goals in a seven-minute spell made it a rout.

Browning blasted into the top corner of the net on 67 minutes before Paul Smith's effort hit the post and Onoura was on hand to slot home the rebound on 71.

Three minutes later and Mark Patterson ran to the by-line and Ty Gooden converted number five.

"I managed a bit of a smile when the fifth goal went in," said Gills player-manager Andy Hessenthaler, who was celebrating his side's biggest win after one season in Division One.

RESULT: Gillingham 5 Preston 0