Reading dropped back into the League One relegation zone on Saturday afternoon despite not playing.

The Royals, on a run of one defeat in eight matches, climbed out of the drop zone for the first time since September with a 3-2 win over Exeter City on New Year's Day.

However, due to their FA Cup exit to Eastleigh and Stevenage's tie against non-league Maidstone United, which they lost, Ruben Selles' side had a weekend off.

Relegation rivals Cheltenham Town and Exeter both played league fixtures, hosting Portsmouth and Carlisle United respectively and picked up positive results.

The Robins, who held Reading to a 2-2 draw during the festive period, moved level on points with the Royals after beating the league leaders 2-1 at Whaddon Road.

Reading remain ahead of Darrell Clarke's men on goal difference.

Gary Caldwell's Grecians beat 23rd-place Carlisle 2-1 at St James Park, moving back ahead of Reading and three points clear of the drop.

14th-place Port Vale visit Berkshire on Saturday as League One action returns.

The Royals travel to Brighton and Hove Albion Under-21s for an EFL Trophy knockout clash on Tuesday.