Iliman Ndiaye was the hero for the Blades on the night before limping off later with an injury, giving United something of an injury concern ahead of more key games coming up.
But United showed their character to bounce back from Saturday's disappointing defeat at Blackburn, with would-be new owner Dozy Mmobuosi watching on from the stands.
Here's how we rated United’s players in victory in Berkshire...
9. Sander Berge 6.5
Playing in a slightly deeper role from the start with McAtee advanced, and saw a good effort which was destined for the bottom corner palmed away by Lumley. A much better showing than in recent weeks, often winning the ball back in midfield before having either the vision to spot a good pass or the turn of pace to glide forward. Photo: Nick Potts
10. James McAtee 6.5
Looked bright on the ball when he was given the opportunity and space to run at Reading, showing great composure and skill to keep the ball in a tight area under pressure from two men when others may have just booted it down the line. Was growing and growing until he too picked up an injury and made way for Fleck Photo: Nick Potts
11. Iliman Ndiaye 7.5
Scored probably his scruffiest goal of the season from just a few yards out but no-one of a United persuasion cared a jot. It showed his excellent attacking instincts, to get in almost Sharp-esque positions to score the poacher's goals as well as the spectacular ones. Then looked to damage himself trying to return the favour for McBurnie with a cross that was cut out, and had to make way - giving United a big injury concern Photo: Nick Potts
12. Oli McBurnie 7
Had an early indication of what sort of night he was in for when Sarr was all over him and had United's first real chance of the game when his header was saved by Lumley on the stretch. It was looking like one of those evenings when nothing quite came off but he showed great vision and composure to pick out Ndiaye for United's opener after a clever run in behind Photo: Nick Potts