Simon Grayson is not about to change his approach over years of management and so it was hardly surprising that he went with a back five sitting back away from home. The half time statistics showed Reading had around 80% of possession.
Preston had to change formation and personnel at half time. The right back slot is a problem. Grimshaw started at right wing back but was pulled at half time and his future in that role is now in doubt.
Preston switched to a flat back four with Clarke playing right back. Fans dispute his crednetials in the right back slot but that is now moot as he went off injured. Grayson has now intensified his search for a full back.
North End improved in the second half but could not claw back a goal. It was a standard North End game in this division. Close but not quite good enough to overturn a deficit.
Grayson talks about strength in midfield and up front yet Pringle was the only new face in the attacking unit and without a ball winner in midfield Preston are limited.
There are plenty of things to ponder after the first weekend. Preston will not set the division alight and my well fail to live up to last season's expectations.