DAVID STOCKDALE 7

Narrowed the angle and made the save when Beerens got in behind the defence at 0-0 but this was not among his busier days.

BRUNO 8

Did what was required defensively and had more chance than usual to go forward. Almost scored after a daring foray and chipped a glorious pass for the crucial first goal.

SHANE DUFFY 8

Great awareness and agility to produce one of the game's big moments as he cleared Williams' goal bound header off the line. An imposing figure at the back.

LEWIS DUNK 7

A very competent and composed evening against a Reading side whose plan to get runners off lone frontman Kermorgant was successfully nullified. Caught out just once when Williams was denied by Duffy.

SEB POCOGNOLI 7

Alert to the fact Reading would look to get wing-back Gunter charging down his flank. Beerens got behind him for the clearest chance but he was generally solid.

ANTHONY KNOCKAERT 8

As ever, an effervescent threat, combined with some teasing set piece deliveries. Involved in Murphy's goal before taking his 11th of the season expertly to finish Reading off.

STEVE SIDWELL 7

Continued his sound run of form against one of his old clubs. Dependable in the midfield battleground. Has developed good partnership with Stephens.

DALE STEPHENS 7

Not at his composed best in possession. Took a booking for a foul after he was robbed and the covering Pocognoli rescued him. Slide-rule pass for Murphy's goal his highlight.

JAMIE MURPHY 9

Plenty of purposeful running with the ball to stretch Reading, especially on the counter when Baldock hit a post and Knockaert scored the third. Just lacking the final delivery until taking his goal superbly.

SAM BALDOCK 8

Rich vein of goalscoring form maintained with the stunning breakthrough to reach double figures in the league after the woodwork had denied him. Full of confidence at present.

GLENN MURRAY 7

Not his night on a personal level against a former club, but still contributed. Just offside when he volleyed in a Bruno cross at 2-0. Warm applause when substituted.

Substitutes

TOMER HEMED: Handy when you can bring on a 13-goal striker.

CHUBA AKPOM: Brief sixth sub appearance.

FIKAYO TOMORI: Fleeting home debut at left-back.