Reading took an early lead with a goal of real quality in a dominant opening spell which had the Wigan defence in complete disarray. On seven minutes Mbengue curled a teasing cross to the far post which Ehibhatiomhan controlled with superb first touch and picked out Savage who had held his run perfectly to drift into space in front of goal and calmy stroke the ball into bottom corner. Royals were rampant only prevented from racing into an early unassailable lead by some desperate defending, good goalkeeping and wayward finishing.

Ehibhatiomhan cut inside on the left and rifled a blistering strike which Tickle managed to beat away for a throw-in on the far side of the pitch. In the space of a minute following a corner Bindon's header was saved by Tickle, Dorsett's shot was blocked and attempts from Wing and Savage flew wide of the target.

Wigan somehow managed to survive the onslaught and settled down, and no doubt to the relief of their back four, began to enjoy spells of possession although they rarely troubled Pereira in the Reading goal. The main threat came from a degree of sloppiness in Reading's passing and poor decision-making in their own half.

Ehibhatiomhan, tormenting the right side of the Wigan defence, whipped in a perfect cross for Smith arriving at the far post. Disappointingly the Reading striker who, in spite of getting in behind the defender at the back post, volleyed over when it seemed easier to score. Given the unenviable responsibility of marking Ehibhatiomhan, Kerr finally resorted to a clumsy challenge which earned him in a yellow card.

Taking a slender lead into the second half initially offered Wigan hope of a comeback until the outstanding Elliot slid a ball through the middle of the Wigan defence presenting Smith with a golden opportunity to extend the lead. With only the 'keeper to beat, Smith couldn't sort his feet out made and made a complete hash of the chance. Fortunately, the ball dropped kindly for Ehibhatiomhan to side-foot the ball into the open goal to put Reading two up. Nobody deserved a goal more than him.

Wigan stuck to their task, but eventually their resistance faded and with both teams making numerous substitutions, the play became ragged, and Reading comfortably retained control of the game. Azeez coming back from injury, replaced Ehibhatiomhan for the last thirty minutes, taking the opportunity for some shooting practice. He looked sharp and lively but didn't find the finish he desired.

It was a solid all-round performance from Reading, which although lacking in the quality of finishing, must have impressed prospective new owner Rob Couhig watching from the West Stand. A change of owner is long overdue and will certainly fuel the growing optimism at the club. Again, it has to be said, the manager and his young squad are to be commended on their positive attitude and loyalty through what has been an uncertain and very difficult period.

John Wells