First-half goals from Kebe and Roberts gave Reading a 2-0 win against Coventry at the Madjeski Stadium this afternoon.
Both sides struggled for chances early on in a very quiet opening, with Noel Hunt having his effort blocked on 14 minutes. Gary Deegan then hit a volley outside the box that went just wide for Coventry.
Reading then took the lead in unusual fashion in the 25th minute through Kebe. Kebe played a quick one-two with Jason Roberts before finding himself in the area, stabbing at the ball and watching it float past Joe Murphy. The effort looked like it may have been meant as a cross.
City tried to respond quickly but Alex Nimely failed to capitalise on Matthew Connolly's underhit backpass.
Hunt headed at goal on 39 minutes, but it was easily saved by Murphy. Reading then grabbed a second when Connolly headed goalwards from a corner and Roberts got the final touch.
Reading kept the ball well at the start of the second period, with the late first-half goal affecting the away side badly.
On 58 minutes, Roberts went on an excellent run from the left wing, and went to ground inside the box but nothing was given by the referee.
City then found a lease of life as Alex Nimely went one-on-one with Federici, but the goalkeeper came out on top to deny the Coventry man. Then Federici again was on hand, diving full stretch to keep out McSheffrey's volley.
Reading saw out the final stages to secure an important 2-0 victory.
Sam Hughes
