Reading FC manager Paul Ince after the Royals’ 2-1 victory at home over Stoke City.
Lucas Joao netted a double on his 29th birthday to earn his side three points.
Reading have won all four of their Championship games at home to put them second in the table after eight matches.
“It was a bounce back after Thursday which was always tough,” said Ince.
“I said to the players it’s not about winning, it’s about performing.
“We performed in every department and that’s all you can ask.”
The Royals burst out the blocks and went in front after two minutes when Lucas Joao capitalised on Bonham’s mistake from Joe Lumley’s long kick.
“It’s about time we got a gift,” continued Ince.
“It was a good finish even though the lad will be disappointed on the line that he didn’t deal with it.
“We needed that because we looked a bit nervy at the start which is unlike us. We normally start well at home.
“Shane Long should have scored to make it 2-0 and to me that’s game over.
“That would have given us breathing space but we didn’t deal with the first header and it’s 1-1 at half-time and we’re thinking, ‘how has that happened?’
Ince was particular delighted with the response of his team in the second-half to restore their lead and claim three points to maintain their perfect home record.
“They came out in the second half and they were incredible in every department which was pleasing.
“It’s important to get three points before we go away to Watford. It’s being competitive and strong at home, it’s a tough place to come now with the crowd behind us.
“I think the referee missed a blatant penalty to make it 3-1 with a handball. We had a few chances that didn’t fall for us. The referee said he was too close which baffles me.
“What I’m seeing different now with this bunch of players. It might not always be the case, but I’m a lot more confident now that we can see out games.
“The gamesmanship, the low block, we’re calm and composed and not being frantic.
“We’re learning how to see out games. It’s an exceptional win.
“While we are playing well at home I want to accumulate as many points as we can because that’s what we need to stay in this league. We know we have a spirit.
“On Thursday Tony Warner’s dad died and I want to dedicate this game to him. He has been off the last few days but he came today so I want to dedicate that to him.”
