Reading picked up their first away win of the season, beating Exeter City 2-1 at St James Park in what could best be described as a 'game of two halves.'

Jayden Wareham and Michael Craig found the net in what was a totally dominant first half, however, it was the Royals' defensive resoluteness that was best displayed in the second period as the Grecians threw the proverbial 'kitchen sink' at Ruben Selles' side.

Take a look below at our ratings from Devon.

Joel Pereira, 6: Straight back into the thick of things after a spell on the treatment table and made some solid saves to keep his side ahead in the second half. A welcomed return to action.

Michael Craig, 7: A very strong first half and capped it off with a goal. Switched off slightly as Ilmari Niskanen picked up in the second half and caused no end of problems out wide. Still doing a sterling job out of position at full-back.

Amadou Mbengue, 6: The fan favourite was everywhere on the night, even ending the match at left-back to cover for Andre Garcia. Made some big tackles to keep the hosts out and his pace was invaluable.

Tyler Bindon, 7: Completely dominant in the first half, commanding the back line and not giving Sonny Cox a sniff. Facing an aerial bombardment in the second half, the teenager still stood strong despite Josh Magennis giving the youngster a physical battle.

Andre Garcia, 6: Similar to Craig, the 16-year-old had a much stronger first half than second as the Grecians turned the momentum on its head. A real learning curve for the teenager, he continues to play beyond his years.

Lewis Wing, 6: Range of passing was ever-so-slightly off throughout as his long-range through-balls often fell through to the goalkeeper. Kept things tidy in tight spaces and helped Reading dictate the flow, particularly in the first half.

Harvey Knibbs, 7: The man was a machine, popping up all over the pitch and winning the ball high in Exeter territory on numerous occasions. After a slower game out wide on Saturday, Tuesday showed exactly why the midfielder needs to be playing centrally.

Charlie Savage, 7: Similar to Knibbs, the youngster must have covered every blade of grass and won the ball back in strong positions all night. 

Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan, 5: A below-par evening for the forward upon return from suspension, often losing possession or being flagged offside. A real threat usually but an off day in Devon.

Jayden Wareham, 7: Took his goal clinically within 60 seconds and never gave the Exeter defence a second's rest with his pressing. Will have given Sam Smith a reminder that his place in the side isn't guaranteed.

Chem Campbell, 6: Grew into the game but was sloppy early on and faded towards the end. On the receiving end of some tough treatment from his full-back but continued to make an option on the touchline.

 

Substitutions

Sam Smith, 6: Proved a strong outlet up top and had a good wrestling match with Pierce Sweeney throughout. 

Adrian Akande, 6: Had little involvement as the Royals were defending for most of the final half hour.

Ben Elliott, 6: Tidy and kept things ticking over, coming up with some big interceptions to ease pressure on the defence.

Harlee Dean, 7: Made one big block of note and was a generally calm head in what was a young back line. Definitely helped the side over the line.

Mamadi Camara, 6: Had a big chance to kill the tie but looked indecisive. Important minutes upon return from injury.