One dangerous cross almost led to the opener but he lacked the sharpness with which he has played too late. Sunderland didn’t move it quick enough against a deep-lying defence. 5 Photo: Martin Swinney
One of Sunderland’s better performers and almost produced a brilliant assist for Gelhardt. Will rue missing a big chance midway through the second half, when he fired over from relatively close range. A decent showing all the same. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
One of many well short of their best in the first half but improved drastically after the break and caused Reading a lot of problems. Took his goal superbly to secure his team three massive points. 7 Photo: Martin Swinney