THE MOORE THE MERRIER

LIAM MOORE credits new boss Paul Clement with making Reading harder to beat after they took a huge step clear of the drop zone.

Modou Barrow’s 12th-minute header was enough to earn Royals all three points and central defender Moore (right) said: “We’ve had a slight tactical change. It’s only minimal but the lads have really taken it on board.

“We look a bit harder to break down, and the spaces look smaller between the players and the goal. We’re defending our zones, we’re standing our ground.”

Injury-hit Preston skipper Tom Clarke was pleased to play his first game since early February but unhappy with a result that leaves Lillywhites six points outside the play-off places.

“It’s been one of those seasons for me,” the defender said. “It was nice to get in and contribute as much as I can.

“But it’s another missed opportunity for us.”