Reading 2-0 Middlesbrough: Player Ratings

Alex McCarthy: 6

The Reading keeper didn't have too much to do in the match, but with Middlesbrough testing him from long range, he at least had to warm his hands a couple of times. His kicking was particularly poor on the night, although one such mishit clearance did lead to Pog's best chance - intentional, I'm sure!

Chris Gunter: 6

A mixed bag from Gunter. On the plus side, he was a menace to the Boro wingers, particularly Luke Williams, who was shut down instantly every time the ball came his way. He also supported McCleary well on the wing. But, as ever, he looked like a rabbit in the headlights in possession, wanting to get rid straight away - and his hospital backpass nearly led to a consolation.

Sean Morrison: 6

Clearly working his way back to full fitness after a couple of error-strewn games, Morrison was again unconvincing but kept the Royals' first clean sheet since the start of April. With Michael Hector now around, the pressure on Morrison to keep his place will be even higher.

Alex Pearce: 8

A rock at the back for Reading, Pearce won every header and marshalled the defence expertly, ensuring that the Royals were never particularly in danger. He's regained the confidence of two years ago, and although Kaspars Gorkss wasn't alongside him tonight, he showed the form which led Reading to the best defence in 2011/12.

Jordan Obita: 8

Emergency left-back? Never. Obita has just won our POTM vote for March and will certainly be up there in the seasonal wrap. Provided one assist with a cracking free-kick, and essentially created the opener with another deep cross, he's shown class and adaptability belying his youth.

Garath McCleary: 8

The winger is still carrying a back injury but returned to form on Tuesday night, a constant threat to the Boro back line and getting a vital touch for Le Fondre's opener. He might have to play through the pain for the rest of the season, but if he can put in these performances every week, it'll be worth it.

Danny Guthrie: 5

Guthrie started well, with a couple of trademark neat passes and flicks, but after about half an hour the midfielder seemed to hit a wall of fitness, misplacing passes and looking downright exhausted. He came out for the second half but quickly had to be replaced by Hope Akpan.

Danny Williams: 7

Another typically lung-bursting performance from the American central midfielder, who managed the whole ninety minutes. He had a few chances from long range, but was equally important defensively. He looks the most vital part of the side at the moment.

Jobi McAnuff:7

McAnuff was another player who looked revived with confidence, running at defenders and drawing a couple of yellow cards from Boro defenders. Provided the ball for Obita's cross for the opener, and looked more threatening than usual.

Adam Le Fondre: 7

Alfie started, and Alfie scored, although no player on earth would have missed the chance from a yard out. He could have grabbed a couple more, hitting the bar once and forcing the keeper into a save - both with his head, strangely.

Hal Robson-Kanu: 5

Unlucky to have to be taken off after half an hour with a bloodied nose, but Hal still didn't totally convince in his new striker role. He did look livelier than on recent outings though.

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Pavel Pogrebnyak: 7

The Pog wasn't fully fit apparently, but he didn't show any of that with a great performance, holding the ball up well and showing commitment up top. Should have scored with a mazy run late on - no less than he deserved.

Hope Akpan: 6

Akpan is never likely to pull up trees, given his role and skillset, but he did the basics well, making tackles and distributing the ball to others. He's still got potential.

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So there are our player ratings - do you agree or disagree? And who was your Man Of The Match? Let us know below!A solid, convincing midweek win against Boro has reignited the playoff dream - but who was most influential in victory? Here are our player ratings; don't forget to vote for your man of the match at the bottom of the page.