Watford 0-2 Preston

David Nugent and Paul McKenna were on target as Preston stayed on course for a place in the Championship play-offs.

Nugent put Preston ahead on the hour, taking a pass from Brian O'Neil to score with a simple finish.

And they doubled their lead 11 minutes later, McKenna lashing home from outside the area after Graham Alexander's tapped free-kick.

Heidar Helguson wasted opportunities for struggling Watford as Preston made it one defeat in 16 league games.

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Watford manager Ray Lewington:

"There are so many teams down there and people might think we have cushion but as far as I am concerned there is no cushion at all.

"Any of the sides down there could finish up relegated.

"It is going to be a battle and we will need experienced players to help us in this situation."

Preston boss Billy Davies:

"The season is a long way from over.

"We've got another win and it was important playing on what is a difficult surface, in the heat and against a side that's not easy to beat.

"We showed good discipline throughout the game. We were very professional and deserved three points."

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Watford: Lee, Ardley (Eagles 67), Doyley, Cox, Smith (McNamee 67), Chambers, Gunnarsson, Mahon, Jackson, Webber (Dyer 73), Helguson.
Subs Not Used: Chamberlain, Bouazza.

Booked: Jackson.

Preston: Day, Alexander, Mawene, Lucketti, Davidson, Sedgwick (Davis 80), McKenna, O'Neil, Lewis (Hill 64), Cresswell, Nugent (Agyemang 74).
Subs Not Used: Ward, Folly.

Booked: McKenna, Davidson.

Goals: Nugent 60, McKenna 71.

Att: 19,649

Ref: M Jones (Cheshire).