Goals from Pavel Pogrebnyak and Nathaniel Chalobah have given Reading a 2-0 lead at half time against Sheffield Wednesday at the Madejski.
Gareth McCleary, who had be recalled to the side, went close when he cut inside and forced Keiren Westwood into a save that denied Simon Cox a follow-up.
In what was a lively opening few minutes, Adam Federici then had to be alert to thwart Chris Maguire's effort moments after Cox's strike was blocked at the other end.
McCleary was at it against on 15 minutes, but this time his strike flew just wide of the post before Liam Palmer's attempt was comfortably gathered.
The home side finally made the breakthrough when Stephen Kelly crossed to Pogrebnyak and the powerful frontman headed home shortly before the half-hour mark.
Cox almost extended their advantage shortly after, but the striker was off balance as he hooked his shot wide.
Chalobah then made it 2-0 five minutes before the break when he steered home a cross from the right to make the most of their pressure.
Paul Gorst
