United had gone 2-0 up in the first half through goals from Jayden Bogle and Billy Sharp (pen), while North End had a man sent off when Andrew Hughes saw red for fouling Rhian Brewster in the box.
But United capitulated in the second and North End secured a deserved point, through Alan Browne and Emil Riis’ late leveller.
Here’s how our man rated the Blades in the proverbial game of two halves…
9. Iliman Ndiaye 5.5
Started brightly and almost opened the scoring with a drive from distance which Iversen got just enough on to divert wide of his post. Later tested the Preston goalkeeper again with a lovely curling effort before making way for Berge Photo: Simon Bellis
10. Billy Sharp 5.5
Made no mistake from the penalty spot as he smashed home to make it 2-0 after Brewster had been fouled. Worked hard for the cause as ever and will be as frustrated as anyone at United's second half capitulation Photo: Simon Bellis
11. Rhian Brewster 5
Had a relatively quiet first half, until he broke free and won the penalty which saw Hughes sent off and Sharp make it 2-0 from the spot. Had a great chance to get a goal of his own in the second half, but he turned the ball wide of the far post - only narrowly, mind Photo: Simon Bellis
12. Subs: David McGoldrick 5
Came on for Brewster and looked lively in spells Photo: Simon Bellis