Preston North End suffered their first defeat in five games after a 2-1 loss at home to Bradford City this afternoon.
The game began very quietly, although Billy Clarke dragged an effort wide for Bradford before Joe Garner headed over under pressure for the hosts.
Midway through the first half, Bradford put themselves in front when McArdle rose highest at a corner to thump a header beyond a helpless Jamie Jones.
Preston continued to create chances though, and only a series of brave blocks prevented the Lilywhites from equalising and Paul Gallagher saw his curling effort held by Jordan Pickford as Bradford held on to lead at the break.
The Preston onslaught continued in the second period, as Garner saw his header cleared off the line before Chris Humphreys drew a good save from Pickford.
Callum Robinson was the next player to go close, with the youngster's fizzing drive squirming inches past the post.
Bradford were still a threat on their rare attacks though, and Jon Stead should have done better with a header at the far post, which he could only guide wide.
Garner continued to pass up good opportunities and sent yet another header wide as Bradford dropped further and further into their own half, but the forward eventually got on the scoresheet with five minutes remaining.
However, Preston were level for less than a minute, as Mark Yeates restored Bradford's lead immediately from kickoff with a curling effort to end Preston's four-game winning run.
Kristian Johnson
