The home supporters erupted into chants of “we’re going to win the league” when news of Boro’s defeat filtered through and off the back of their performance against the Lilywhites, that looks likely.
The Sky Blues controlled the tempo and direction of the game from the moment they took the lead, although Preston goalkeeper Daniel Iversen can feel hard done by with the first two goals.
First, Sakamoto’s shot wrong-footed him after hitting the left calf of North End captain Ben Whiteman, and then he made a brilliant save to turn Simms’ hooked shot on to the bar, only for the ball to rebound straight to Thomas-Asante.
Preston may also be frustrated by the penalty award, as Ephron Mason-Clark was sent sprawling under minimal pressure from Pol Valentin.
But even without that, there was little doubting where the points were going, as Coventry secured a sixth win in a row in the manner of potential champions.
They had chances to extend their margin of victory, most notably when Josh Eccles blazed widly over late on when well placed.
Preston, on the other hand, looked exactly like a team with only one win in 11 Championship matches.
Their bright spots were few and far between, barring headers from Whiteman and Milutin Osmajic, which were both saved by Coventry goalkeeper Carl Rushworth.