Femi Azeez gave the Royals a first-half lead, one which Daniel Johnson cancelled out with a penalty after an hour.
Within eight minutes though, Reading regained the lead through John Swift.
A late bombardment from North End couldn't bring about an equaliser, substitutes Brad Potts and Ben Whiteman both denied by fine saves from home keeper Rafael Cabral in stoppage-time.
Here are the PNE player ratings from the Championship clash.
9. Daniel Johnson 7
PNE’s best player, composed on the ball and tidy with his passing. Found the net with the penalty in the second half. Photo: Camerasport
10. Emil Riis 5
Didn’t get into the game although the service up to him was limited. The Danish striker was subbed after the equaliser. Photo: Camerasport
11. Scott Sinclair 5
Like strike partner Riis, got isolated up front. Had a shot blocked in the first half after getting space wide in the box. Photo: Camerasport
12. Brad Potts 6
Replaced Riis and played up front where he did impact the game. Forced a fine save from the keeper late on. Photo: Camerasport