Preston drop out of playoffs after Reading defeat

<div class="pa_art"><p> John Swift and Lucas Joao struck early as Reading put a dent in Preston's promotion bid with a 2-0 win at Deepdale.</p><p>Defeat saw Preston slip out of the Championship play-off places after a run of three matches without a win.</p><p>The Lilywhites had lost their last four games against the Berkshire side and, with the Royals coming off back-to-back victories, the stage was set for a testing afternoon for the hosts.</p><p>But it was the home side had the first chance, Josh Harrop making a nuisance of himself and slipping a pass to Brad Potts who forced Rafael Cabral into a low save.</p><p>Reading took the lead with their first attack, with what proved a real cracker.</p><p> Charlie Adam played a lovely pass to Tyler . . .