This was a memorable evening for Royals fans. Not only did Reading take three points which virtually assures them of a play-off place against a very good side, but they took them with an outstanding performance. The whole team, individually and collectively, played really well. Pardew further enhanced his growing reputation as a good manager making substitutions and tactical changes to swing the balance of play back in Reading's favour. In contrast to Tuesday the crowd were superb throughout, responding their team's efforts, and lifting them when they needed encouragement. I can't remember such a good atmosphere in the stadium. The roar at the kick off was almost intimidating! I'm sure the fans played a part in tonight's win.

Before the game I would have been more than happy with a draw, and the Forest performance in the first half demonstrated why they are serious contenders for a place in the Premiership. They moved the ball well in midfield and have direct and dangerous forwards. Pardew, by including Mackie, was clearly anticipating facing Harewood, Huckerby and Johnson. I felt this had the effect of psychologically surrendering the initiative before a ball had been kicked. After half an hour he began to put it right by replacing Mackie with Newman, a decision which I am sure was helped when Mackie managed to get his name in the book for a clumsy challenge. Newman was a much more positive choice. Mackie didn't really know where he should be defensively and Newman clearly had more to offer with his passing ability.

Reading matched their opponents for the opening fifteen minutes but Forest gradually took control of the game and created three clear chances but were denied by the post and two very good saves from Hahnemann. He has dropped some clangers recently but tonight he was able to do what he does best - he stopped shots well by being brave and staying on his feet.

Pardew made another crucial and bold change at half time by switching to 4-4-2, bringing on Henderson for Little and giving Reading more attacking options. It worked a treat! Henderson looking a much more accomplished player these days was a real handful in the air, held the ball up well and laid it off accurately. There was a significant change of attitude in the second half as the Royals decided to take the initiative and pressurise the visitors. The back four played an outstanding role in the tactical change. As Reading pressed forward the defence was frequently exposed to Forest counter attacks. They had to work hard as a unit to deny them scoring opportunities which they did with great success through intelligent covering and always making the correct choices about when to stand off and when to go in and win the ball. Brown in particular was outstanding. As Pardew pointed out, it was no mean feat to keep a clean sheet against this Forest side.

The winning goal was a simple but well taken goal. A good ball whipped in from the right by Murty met by Hughes well timed run and perfectly executed header. It was a goal that the Royals deserved for their second half performance and their positive attitude. Even some poor and inconsistent refereeing could not deny them the three points. A clear hand ball was missed although it was on the referee's blind side and Forster was clearly obstructed in the area and was worthy of at least an indirect free kick. But lets not dwell on that - it happens all the time!

What really matters, apart from taking three points, was the performance. Reading are far from favourites to go up, but looking at this evening's performance, we are capable of beating any of the teams likely to be competing for promotion. I get the feeling there are going to be some cracking games before the season ends! An interesting observation from Brian Little on Sky at half time. "You don't want to be losing games at this stage of the season". So tell me Brian, at what stage of the season would you be wanting to lose them?
Report by John Wells