Jason Roberts earned praise from Reading boss Brian McDermott after helping record a victory over rock-bottom Coventry.
Thorn praises fans amid Coventry's miserable fortunes
Striker Jason Roberts earned praise from Reading boss Brian McDermott after helping record a victory over rock-bottom Coventry, which left Andy Thorn attempting to highlight positives.
Former Blackburn striker Roberts had an assist for the opening goal from Jimmy Kebe and then poached his second in as many matches to earn a 2-0 home win.
The 34-year-old has bags of experience from spells at West Brom and Wigan, 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," said the Madejski Stadium boss.
"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, as he added: "We haven't played for two weeks and we will be better for that. 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.
World class
"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."
While Reading moved up to seventh in the Championship, Coventry remained rooted to the foot of the table.
Disappointed Coventry manager 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."
