READING climbed up to seventh in the Championship, after winning 1-0 at Watford, on Saturday afternoon.

The only goal of the contest came after five minutes, as Kaspars Gorkss glanced a header past Manuel Almunia from Jordan Obita's corner.

The lead was almost extended soon after, but Jobi McAnuff fired wide.

The Royals dominated the first 45 minutes, but were pegged back after the break by the Hornets.

Troy Deeney's header and shot on the turn forced Reading goalkeeper Alex McCarthy into action.

However, Watford ended the game with 10 men after Alexander Merkel was dismissed after a reckless challenge on Nick Blackman late on.

Reading manager Nigel Adkins said: “We are back on track for the play-offs and with 21 games left in the season we are going to enjoy it.”

Next for Reading is a home game against Bolton on Saturday at the Madejski Stadium (kick-off 3pm).