Boro and Iron strengthen survival hopes

Last updated : 29 December 2010 By Luke Thornhill

The Iron moved up one place to 22nd with their win at Burnley, but remain in the bottom three after Middlesbrough's win at Preston North End.

The Lillywhites had taken the lead at Deepdale through Billy Jones after 27 minutes, but Leroy Lita levelled three minutes later before putting Boro ahead.

David Wheater added a third, ensuring Preston finish 2010 with five points separating them from safety.

Crystal Palace drop to 23rd after conceding a late equaliser to Bristol City. Neil Danns looked to have had the Eagles on course to complete a rare away win at Ashton Gate, but Brett Pitman levelled from the penalty spot in stoppage-time.

Leicester City missed the chance to distance themselves from the relegation zone as they were beaten 2-0 at Millwall, with Steve Morison and Jason Puncheon on target for the Lions.

QPR eased past Coventry City 2-0, thanks to an own goal from Kieren Westwood and a Tommy Smith header, to take further hold at the top of the table.

They now boast a seven-point lead as Cardiff City were beaten 4-1 at Watford, despite taking the lead through Peter Whittingham.

Danny Graham's brace, coupled with Marvin Sordell and John Eustace, secured the impressive win.

Swansea City defeated Barnsley 1-0, with Jermaine Easter on target, to move level on points with their Welsh rivals.

Leeds twice led Portsmouth by two goals at Elland Road, but had to settle for a point in a 303 draw.

Hull City were held to a 1-1 draw by Reading, who moved into the play-off positions.