Ben Whiteman's lofted ball was headed into his own net by Barrow defender Charlie Raglan
Preston North End needed a freak own goal to overcome League Two Barrow and sneak into the second round of the Carabao Cup.
Midway through the second half, Bluebirds defender Charlie Raglan headed a long ball past his goalkeeper from the edge of the area in what proved to be the game's decisive moment.
North End manager Paul Heckingbottom had watched his team, which had seven alterations from their opening draw at QPR, toil for long periods.
Tottenham loanee Alfie Devine forced a good save out of Ben Winterbottom early on but there was no way through Andy Whing's side.
In fact, Connor Mahoney was close to giving the hosts the lead with a brilliant effort from more than 40 yards which landed just on the roof of the net with goalkeeper Jack Walton backpedalling.
But the key moment arrived when North End captain Ben Whiteman lofted a ball in the direction of fellow substitute Michael Smith and Raglan headed it past the onrushing Winterbottom.
Tom Barkhuizen volleyed against the post late on as Barrow sought an equaliser.
Andy Whing: 'We were outstanding'
Heckingbottom: 'Really pleased to go through'
