Reading returned to winning ways with a convincing 3-1 win over bottom-club Carlisle United at Brunton Park.

Sam Smith's opener was added to by top scorer Harvey Knibbs as the Royals ran riot in Cumbria.

Take a look at the ratings below.

David Button, 6: Simple day at the office for the keeper who had little to do yesterday afternoon. Had little chance with the lose-range header converted by Jon Mellish.

Andy Yiadom, 7: Defensively tested little but his standout moment came in attack, channelling his inner Cafu to beat a few defenders before cutting the ball back for Knibbs to convert his first.

Tyler Bindon, 6: Composed and comfortable for most of the afternoon, looking calm with the ball at his feet and having little to do throughout the afternoon.

Amadou Mbengue, 6: Forming a strong partnership with Bindon at the back, the youngsters complement each other with pace and strength. Beaten in the air for Mellish's goal being the only blot in what was otherwise a commanding showing.

Clinton Mola, 6: Quiet afternoon for the full-back, who loved getting forward when he could and had little to do from a defensive perspective.

Michael Craig, 7: A terrier-like performance in the midfield, giving the hosts little time and space on the ball. In comparison, the youngster himself seemed to always have time and space on the ball, driving forward when possible but allowing his midfield teammates the chance to dictate proceedings.

Harvey Knibbs, 8: Another brace, matching his pair from the 5-1 reverse win over the same opponents before Christmas. Work rate, as always, was unquestionable and took his goals well in both halves.

Lewis Wing, 6: Another assist for the midfield maestro, picking out the clever run of Smith moments after the striker had hit the post. Quieter perhaps than some of his recent showings, but did all he needed to do. 

Femi Azeez, 7: His opposite number was terrified and Azeez was almost beating the defence at will. Picked up another assist and was unfortunate not to score himself.

Sam Smith, 7: Took his goal very well and was unlucky not to have a brace. Held the ball up well and was always looking to get in behind with clever runs. A handful that the defence could not handle.

Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan, 6: A thorn in the side of the Carlisle defence, the youngster was direct and looked to make things happen. Could have scored himself in the closing stages but forced the keeper into a good save.

 

Substitutes

Ben Elliott, 6: Came on and kept things ticking over. Did what he needed to do but did nothing eye-catching or out of the ordinary.

Kelvin Abrefa, n/a