Reading came out on the right side of a tight relegation scrap with Exeter City, squeezing through 3-2 on New Year's Day.

Here are the ratings.

David Button, 6: After his heroic display at Cheltenham on Friday, the keeper backed it up with a solid but unspectacular display against the Grecians. Could do nothing about Zak Jules' strike, but possibly could have for Dion Rankine's second. Yet again, distribution left a lot to be desired.

Clinton Mola, 6: A surprise selection, the full-back had a hit-and-miss day. Was very keen on getting forward and supporting the wingers, sometimes being the furthest player forward, but was exposed defensively at times. Did improve as the game wore on.

Nelson Abbey, 6: The final game of a brutal festive run, the young defender more than held his own in what continues to be a stellar breakout campaign. 

Tyler Bindon, 6: Slotting in place for the injured Tom Holmes, the teenager was a more than adequate replacement.

Jeriel Dorsett, 6: Continually targeted out wide, the full-back came out on top more often than not. Was beaten by Jules too easily for the second equaliser, however.

Michael Craig, 5: The sheer number of games in recent days probably caught up with the teenager, who looked tired and was not up to his usual levels. Looked likely to be sent off following his first yellow card, so hooked in the second half.

Lewis Wing, 6: A slow start but the classy midfielder began to dictate the play as it went on. Showed some great passes but was unable to back up his two assists from Whaddon Road.

Harvey Knibbs, 7: Scorer of the first goal, and playing a crucial role in the second too, Knibbs' energy was a constant thorn in Exeter's side. 

Caylan Vickers, 6: Showed glimpses of quality, but was generally rather quiet. Helped win the ball back well for the Royals' second goal.

Femi Azeez, 7: Another match-winning performance from the winger, scoring a spectacular long-range strike to seal the victory. Popping up with some vital goals to back up his energetic performances.

Sam Smith, 5: Hard to judge, as the striker had little in the way of chances. Holding the ball well when given the opportunity, the forward was starved of possession in dangerous areas.

 

Substitutes

Paul Mukairu, 6: His direct running caused Exeter lots of problems, but his decision-making still requires some work.

Charlie Savage, 6: Showed some quality on the ball when needed and was a key cog of the eventual winning goal. Solid impact from the bench from a player who has seen little game time of late.

Amadou Mbengue, 6: Full of energy off the bench, the combative defender was exciting to watch both offensively and defensively. 

Ben Elliott, n/a