Reading boss Brian McDermott praised Jason Roberts after the former Blackburn man made it two goals in two games in the 2-0 win over Coventry.

Roberts claimed an assist for the opening goal from Jimmy Kebe and then poached the second himself.

The 34-year-old has bags of experience from spells at West Brom, Wigan and Blackburn, and McDermott believes that can be a huge benefit to the Reading team.

"It's great just having him around as a focal point for our attack and as a person. The lads like having him around," McDermott said.

"He can hold the ball up and keep it. That's the first 90 minutes he has played for a while."

McDermott thought his side looked as though they were in need of a game.

"We haven't played for two weeks and we will be better for that," he said. "In addition a few of the lads have been out for a little while.

"Coventry played good football and we had to try to get ourselves in the game.

"At 2-0 in the second half we looked like we were running out of steam. Our goalkeeper (Adam Federici) made some fantastic saves and that's why he is a top 'keeper."

Coventry more than held their own for the opening 20 minutes before Reading struck.

Matt Connolly, making his debut on loan from QPR, slipped the ball forward to Roberts who instantly flicked it on to Kebe, and he chipped the ball over goalkeeper Joe Murphy.

Two minutes before the interval Reading went further ahead. Ian Harte swung in a corner from the right wing, and Connolly headed it back into a crowded goalmouth where Roberts prodded it home with the slightest of touches.

Coventry's best efforts came midway through the second half but Federici made two superb saves from Alex Nimely and another from Gary McSheffrey.

While Reading are up to seventh, Coventry remained rooted to the foot of the table.

Disappointed Coventry manager Andy Thorn said: "We gave it a real good go in the second half. I thought we were on top until they scored but it always seems to go against you when you are in the position we are in.

"Some of the saves Federici pulled off were world class. On one occasion I was already halfway down the line thinking it was a goal.

"I was pleased with the attitude of our lads. A lot of teams in our position would have come out in the second half and gone four or five down. I was really pleased with them.

"Our supporters are second to none. The support they give the team and me with what's going on at the moment is phenomenal. I am really proud to manage their team.

"They are the best set of fans I have ever played for or worked for.

"We have got to stay positive and keep taking the good things out of the game."