READING returned to winning ways in the Championship thanks to a 1-0 victory at Ipswich Town.

The home side dominated possession, but could not create any clear cut chances even if Daryl Murphy, Freddie Sears and Jay Tabb all went close.

The Royals took the lead after 14 minutes as Jamie Mackie drilled home a shot from 25 yards out.

After the break, Reading’s Nathaniel Chalobah went close with a powerful free-kick, while Murphy headed a Paul Anderson free-kick wide.

The visitors then stood tall in defence to make sure of the win which moved them up to 13th in the Championship.

Royals’ manager Steve Clarke said: “It was a tough game and not pretty to watch, but we showed good character today.”

Reading are next in Championship action on Tuesday night when they travel to Huddersfield (kick-off 7.45pm).