The 2013-14 campaign delivered a vital return to contention for Preston North End as The Lilywhites finished 5th in League One, securing a play-off spot after a strong season under manager Simon Grayson. Leading the charge was the prolific centre-forward Joe Garner, whose 18 league goals and 24 goals in all competitions, including a breathtaking play-off equaliser, drove the attack in a year built on a thrilling 9-game unbeaten start. Though the journey ended in heartbreak with a semi-final defeat to Rotherham United, the season marked a significant step forward that firmly established the club as a challenger.