Reading picked up a crucial three points in a narrow 2-1 win over play-off chasing Preston North End this weekend at the Madejski Stadium. 

The Royals were hugely impressive during the win and they will head into their game against Hull City full of confidence after this latest victory.

The Berkshire-based side took the lead with Yakou Meite firing home from close-range after John Swift's perfectly weighted pass found Mo Barrow.

Barrow was soon on the scoresheet himself as he capitalised on some poor Preston defending to round the goalkeeper and slot the ball home into an empty net.

Jayden Stockley pulled one back for the Lilywhites late on, but Reading held on to give themselves some breathing space in their battle to avoid the drop.

Jose Gomes' side are now sat 19th in the Championship table, and more importantly, they are four points ahead of Rotherham who currently occupy a relegation spot.

But what did we learn about the Royals from this impressive win?

Find out below....

Jose Gomes has transformed the club 

The Royals boss had his doubters when he was appointed, largely due to the fact that he didn't have any experience in English football.

But his tactics were spot on in the win over Preston, and he is proving to be a real favourite at the Madejski Stadium this season.

He's transformed the club from top to bottom and has certainly brought back the feel-good factor heading towards the conclusion of this season.

Lewis Baker is proving to be an excellent signing 

Baker didn't hit the ground running at Reading when he first joined the club and looked off the pace.

But he has certainly settled into the Royals team and his composure in the centre of midfield is proving to be a real asset to their recent turnaround in form.

He'll be crucial to the Royals' chances of retaining their Championship status and could be tempted by a permanent move to Berkshire in the summer.

Andy Rinomhota was a class apart 

Rinomhota made a timely return to the starting XI this weekend after a spell on the sidelines.

His return couldn't have come at a better time as well, as the Royals battle to stay in the Championship.

He has been Reading's best player by some distance and didn't put a foot wrong all game against Preston and supporters will have the upmost confidence that his return will see them avoid the drop this season.