Royals boss Steve Coppell was delighted with his side after a gutsy but impressive 2-0 win away to in-form Sheffield United on Saturday afternoon.

"I thought that we played well today," he told Reading World. "Especially in the first half when we played some really good football - the way we like to play. We scored two good goals at the right times.

"I thought we'd missed out after a phase of attacking football, but Doyler made a great run, before cutting it back for Cisse who finished well with a good finish.

"Then it looked like we were getting a bit bogged down as the half wore on, until the second came just before the break."

 World TV: Steve, Liam & Ivar reaction
 Report: Sheff Utd 0-2 Reading

Despite the two-goal cushion, Coppell was pleased that his side showed the fight and resilience they needed to hold off an anticipated Sheffield United fightback.

"We knew we were in for an onslaught after half time. They changed personnel and changed formation and they threw a lot more into the box.

"With the strong, physical presence they carried in the box, they were always going to put us under pressure.

"Just by random chance and with things bound to be falling in the box, they were going to get opportunities. Something was always going to happen.

"And at the start of the half, we got a bit sloppy and some gaps started to appear as they threw numbers forward. And at times we had to defend for our lives.

"If they'd scored at those moments, it might have been a different game. But the two goal cushion proved enough."

Coppell paid tribute to to his goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann, who with key saves from James Beattie and Billy Sharp kept the United attacks at bay.

"Marcus was at his very best today - as he has been ever since I arrived here really. He has been a terrific goalkeeper for this club and long may it continue."

Some of the Royals' stars fly off for international duty now, and Coppell was well aware that although his virtually fully fit squad looks to be benefitting his side at the moment, that situation can quickly alter.

"We look solid at the moment, but it can change so quickly.

"Like all managers who have six or seven players disappearing to play for their countries, we don't like losing control over what they are doing. 

"But we'll have them back with us as soon as we can and for once we have a home game after the break this time."