VITO Mannone saved an injury-time penalty as Paul Clement’s reign as Reading FC boss got off to a winning start.

The Italian beat away Jake Bidwell’s spot-kick after Dave Edwards had tripped Pawel Wszolek in the box to send Royals fans wide after a first victory in 10 Championship matches.

Sone Aluko had given the hosts a 13th minute lead with a 25-yard screamer into the top corner.

But Clement’s men were forced to defend for large periods and saw out the final 10 minutes with 10 men following substitute Yann Kermorgant’s dismissal for two yellow cards.

It was only their second victory in 19 league games and fourth at home this season as they extended their lead over the relegation zone to six points.

And a combination of resolute defending and Mannone’s heroics at the death also earned Royals their first clean sheet in 13 games.