Jimmy Kebe scored in each half as Reading triumphed 2-1 over Sunderland to record their third win in four Premier League matches.
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The winger drilled Reading into a seventh-minute lead when he found the top corner following good work from Jobi McAnuff.
Adam Federici produced a fine double save to deny both Alfred N'Diaye and Sebastian Larsson, before Craig Gardner levelled from the penalty spot.
He confidently converted from 12 yards after Pavel Pogrebnyak needlessly lunged in on John O'Shea just inside the box.
It was then Simon Mignolet's turn to save his side as the Sunderland keeper tipped a Pogrebnyak header over the crossbar.
The Royals later struck the woodwork when Adrian Mariappa's header from Ian Harte's corner was palmed onto the bar.
Harte's delivery caused Sunderland problems all afternoon and it was to be from his free kick that Kebe would double his tally and secure Reading the points.
Moments after Federici had acrobatically denied Black Cats substitute Danny Graham a debut goal, Kebe climbed high at the back post to power Harte's free kick past Mignolet and ensure Reading's recent good form continued.
