READING 2 PNE 2

PRESTON threw away a two goal lead as they struggled to contain a strong second-half performance from lowly Reading at the Majeski stadium.

North End had hoped to bury Saturday's nightmare with an emphatic performance and also show Nicky Forster why he was wrong to choose Reading ahead of Preston during the close season.

But it was Forster who almost stole the show, only being prevented from scoring after Sean Gregan got in the way of his 25 yard drive.

Despite losing Ryan Kidd early on, replaced by Rob Edwards, and surviving an excellent attempt from Martin Williams - only denied thanks to the heroics of keen-to-make-amends 'keeper David Lucas - Preston soon found themselves on top.

On 31 minutes, Eyres smacked the ball from 25 yards into the crowded Reading box. It somehow slammed through the plethora of players and beyond keeper Scott Howey into the Reading net.

Just eight minutes later Preston found themselves two goals up. Graham Alexander, not in an apparently dangerous position, played the ball towards the box. It seemed to be drifting out of play, but Steve Basham appeared from nowhere to hit home from the tightest of angles, leaving the keeper stranded and PNE in control.

Whatever Reading boss Tommy Burns said at half-time apparently worked, as his team came out much more determined and Preston struggled to keep them under control.

PNE cracked, as, on 71 minutes, Andy Gurney sent in a high ball from the right. Michael Jackson leapt for the ball, but was beaten by Neil Smith who headed past Lucas from 12 yards out.

It was even stevens eight minutes later as Keith Scott headed home from close range.

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