The 2008-09 campaign delivered a dramatic, last-gasp play-off qualification for Preston North End, as The Lilywhites finished 6th in the Championship by pipping Cardiff City on goals scored. Leading the charge was the powerful striker Jon Parkin, whose 11 goals proved crucial in a campaign built on a strong finish under manager Alan Irvine, who won Manager of the Month for April. Though the season ended in semi-final heartbreak against Sheffield United, it was a memorable year that saw The Lilywhites fight until the final day for a Premier League shot.