PRESTON North End's Wembley dream is over, blown away in a supercharged Turf Moor atmosphere by an inability to put away any of the goalscoring chances that came their way.
The final score was Burnley 1 PNE 0 but it all started to go wrong early on as Gerry Harrison made a mistake at the back to let in Kurt Nogan and the Preston man was expected to make the Burnley net bulge.
But, instead of taking the easier option and hitting a shot wide of Beresford, Nogan tried to chip him and sent the ball sailing over the bar.
John Mullin was then sent through by a lovely pass from Dean Barrick but his low shot didn't carry enough pace.
Six minutes before half-time North End paid dearly for the missed opportunities as Burnley went in front.
Brass had oceans of space on the right and his low cross was perfect for Andy Payton and though Moilanen kept out his first shot the striker followed up to score.
Preston threw everything at Burnley in the second half and Mullin did well with a great shot on the turn but Beresford saved at the foot of the post in great style.
Parkinson hit a stinging 30-yard drive which Beresford kept out again and Burnley clung on desperately to their lead.
Mullin broke on the right, cut inside and delivered a neat ball to Ashcroft, a goal looked certain but Moore got there first to scramble the ball clear.
Macken, who came on for Nogan, created a fine chance for himself late on but the finish left a lot to be desired.
Preston will now concentrate on their relegation battle with home matches coming up against Wycombe and Luton.
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