Kilkenny opened the scoring in the clash on 29 minutes with a superb strike after collecting the ball 20 yards out from the goal.

Robert Snodgross' intelligent cross was half-cleared into Kilkenny's path and the Australian international then hammered his shot into the top right-hand corner for the opener.

Billy Paynter doubled Leeds' lead on 57 minutes, before Iain Hume pulled one back for the Lilywhites, but United held on to climb to fifth spot on the table.

Kilkenny, who started the game, was replaced on 83 minutes. Preston's young Aussie Bailey Wright was an unused sub.

Elsewhere, Rhys Williams returned to the Middlesbrough starting eleven in a central defensive role and was crucial in his struggling side's important 2-1 win over Derby County.

The versatile Australian international's performance in defence drew praise from Boro boss Tony Mowbray.

Williams had a second-half chance cleared off the line, while his Australian teammate Scott McDonald had a few opportunities from distance saved.

McDonald, who returned after a weekend illness, started and played 81 minutes in the win.

Shane Lowry returned after suspension to play a full game as Sheffield United claimed a much-needed 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest, while Richard Garcia was an unused substitute as Hull City lost 1-0 at home to Burnley.

Meanwhile, young Aussie gloveman Danny Ireland missed Coventry City's 1-1 draw at Doncaster due to a thigh injury.

In England's League One, James Wesolowski was an unused sub as Peterborough United defeated Notts County 1-0 to firm up their grip on fourth spot.

In League Two, young Australian 'keeper Alex Cisak impressed again, keeping a clean sheet, as Accrington Stanley defeated Stockport 3-0 to boost their playoff hopes.

Meanwhile Jamie Young put in a full shift as Aldershot beat Torquay 1-0, while Shane Cansdell-Sherriff played a full game as Shrewsbury drew 2-2 with Port Vale.

In Scotland's First Division, Ryan McGowan put in a full shift as Partick Thistle defeated Queen of the South 3-1.

And in the Second Division, Dylan McGowan and Matthew Park both played full games as East Fife drew 1-1 at Airdrie United.