Boss Jim Magilton was delighted with his players after their 1-0 win at Reading, completing a week which has seen his side take four points from trips to face two of the division's top three.

Magilton said: "We have gone to Molineux and the Madejski and taken four points, so I can't praise my players enough for their commitment, work ethic, attitude and application to their roles.

"I'm very proud of them. They have been absolutely fantastic. We've still got a chance of making the play-offs.

"We knew Reading would start well and they did, but we weathered the early storm and started to catch them on the counter.

"The back four were terrific and our work ethic all over the pitch was magnificent. Luca Civelli has been a revelation for us in terms of the work he does for the team.”

The Town manager also singled out goalscorer Jon Stead for praise: "It was a training ground goal - not. He's our top scorer and has had real moments for us. You have got to show belief in Jon and if you do you will get more performances like that. He hasn't always played well for us but he did today.

"We have a massive game at home to Burnley now and it's a must win game for us. They will probably be favourites but with the fans behind us and Portman Road rocking, we will have a real go at them."

Reading manager Steve Coppell was taking control of a team for the 999th time and will make it a round 1,000 against Doncaster on Tuesday, but on today's performance seemed unsure of how he has lasted so long: "I'm joining a very limited club and am proud to be doing so. I suppose I must have done something right, but whatever I was doing right I'm not doing at the moment.

"A manager's longevity depends on results, so if I don't liven up I'm fully aware of the consequences.

"It's painful. I feel for the fans and I feel for the players because they are trying.

"From February onwards we have been less than average at home. We have nine games to go, six are away and at this stage of the season it is harder for home teams.

"But that is no excuse - we know we are not performing to our potential at the moment. We are not playing well enough to win games."

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