Why Reading boss Paul Ince praised Sheffield United chief Paul Heckingbottom after Bramall Lane victory

Reading, who are 21st in the table, ran out deserved 2-1 winners thanks to Tom McIntyre’s injury-time winner after Iliman Ndiaye had looked to have rescued a point for the sixth-placed Blades.

The Royals had led since the first half thanks to former Owl Lucas Joao’s superb finish, and United can have no complaints about the result – although they will feel aggrieved about the manner of it.

“It was it was a fantastic performance from the boys. They’ve been progressively getting better, today was the best I’ve seen them play under me,” former England international Ince said.

“It had all the components. Defending well and we cut them apart with the ball. It was a proper team and that’s what you need against these top teams.

Player ratings: Defender stands out as Blades suffer late defeat to Reading

“Sheffield United are a top team, they haven’t lost here for so long and you can see what a big result it is for us. and I’ve got to say deserved.

“We had big chances, and could have put the game to bed. We just had to be more ruthless.

“Our football deserved to be rewarded with more goals and to be fair to Paul, he said the best team won. I like that, a lot of managers talk rubbish after the game but he said we were the better team and deserved to win, which I thank him for.”

While you're here, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details HERE. Your support is much appreciated. Chris Holt, Football Editor