Wayne Rooney scored the only goal of the game as Manchester United claimed victory over Reading at Old Trafford. Rio Ferdinand marked his return to the England squad with a marauding run from defence before laying the ball off to international teammate Rooney to open the scoring in the 21st minute.
But
there was little else to entertain the Old Trafford crowd in a
disappointing first period that produced only long-range efforts from
Rooney and Robin van Persie to lift the home supporters.
Reading striker Hal Robson-Kanu also came close in the 32nd minute with a 25-yard drive which went just wide of David De Gea's goal.
This was a relatively unimpressive display by the league leaders, especially in the final third of the field.
Rooney's attempted chip over Reading goalkeeper Stuart Taylor which sailed high over the crossbar midway through the second period was testament to that.
Taylor then made a fine save from Ryan Giggs when the veteran's cross-cum-shot was deflected toward goal, but the Royals goalkeeper turned it around the post.
A comparatively unimpressive United held on to extend their lead at the top of the table.
Reading striker Hal Robson-Kanu also came close in the 32nd minute with a 25-yard drive which went just wide of David De Gea's goal.
This was a relatively unimpressive display by the league leaders, especially in the final third of the field.
Rooney's attempted chip over Reading goalkeeper Stuart Taylor which sailed high over the crossbar midway through the second period was testament to that.
Taylor then made a fine save from Ryan Giggs when the veteran's cross-cum-shot was deflected toward goal, but the Royals goalkeeper turned it around the post.
A comparatively unimpressive United held on to extend their lead at the top of the table.