Reading took a huge step towards securing Championship safety with a stunning late victory against play-off chasing Sheffield United.
The Royals went ahead through Lucas Joao’s powerful strike but were pegged back by an Iliman Ndiaye equaliser with minutes remaining.
Late in added time, the visitors secured a crucial three points through Tom McIntyre’s strike.
Reading are now on the verge of confirming their Championship status for next year as they sit nine points above the drop zone with four games to play.
Orjan Nyland 6: The defence protected the Norwegian very well today and when called upon he did what was required. Good positioning to save from John Egan in the 89th minute.
Andy Yiadom 8: As reliable as ever. Put two dangerous crosses into the box which nobody got onto the end of.
Michael Morrison 8: Controlled Ollie McBurnie all game and dominated his aerial duels. Provided the assist for the winner with a fantastic knock-down for McIntyre.
Tom Holmes 8: Some crunching tackles, important blocks throughout the game and a number of crucial interceptions.
Tom McIntyre 7: Bounced back with a solid performance in centre-midfield alongside Drinkwater. Composed finish to send the travelling contingent into rapture.
Abdul Baba Rahman 8: A welcome return to the side after a spell on the sidelines. Provides energy down the left and carries the ball upfield to relieve pressure when needed.
Danny Drinkwater 8: Has improved drastically under Ince. A disruptive presence in midfield who didn’t give the Blades a moment’s rest.
Josh Laurent 9: Provided the assist for Joao’s opener and was integral to Ince’s gameplan. Pressed the opposition into mistakes and made sure Joao wasn’t left isolated throughout the game.
Ovie Ejaria 8: His pass to Laurent for the opener will go unnoticed but it was a delightful moment to bypass the Sheffield United midfield. Also did his job defensively dropping in when needed.
Tom Ince 7: Tested Foderingham with an effort from outside the box in the first half. Quieter after the break but worked hard to help out defensively.
Lucas Joao 9: Impressive performance overall with fantastic hold up play to relieve pressure on the Royals’ defence. A wonderful finish to open the scoring but will be disappointed not to have doubled his tally soon after.
SUBS: Femi Azeez n/a, Tom Dele-Bashiru n/a
