Preston and Sunderland played out a 0-0 draw in the Sky Bet Championship.
Paul Heckingbottom's Preston side had their chances to secure a win with some missed opportunities.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris made some surprising changes by rotating his squad, leaving out Patrick Roberts and Romaine Mundle.
Preston had an early chance when Sam Greenwood missed from close range after good play by Jordan Storey.
Chris Mepham received a yellow card for a foul on Greenwood, who was through on goal.
Despite Sunderland's improvements, Preston looked more likely to score throughout the game.
Preston had opportunities through Mads Frokjaer and Brad Potts but failed to convert.
Sunderland goalkeeper Freddie Woodman made a great save to deny Aaron Connolly's effort.
In the second half, both teams struggled to create significant chances until late in the game when Patrick Roberts forced a save from Woodman.