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Veljko Paunovic praised the “super important” qualities of his Reading team, as they advanced a five-point lead to the top of the championship with a win over a Rotherham team that was the best team for much of the first half.
Reading took a lead in the 41st minute thanks to Yakou Méïté and while Rotherham threatened again in the second period, Reading proved resilient, adding late goals from Méïté and their top scorer Lucas João.
“What we saw in our team was the consistency of getting the job done,” Paunovic said. “Doing his job for the team. You also have to be patient, have a strong mindset, and don’t get frustrated if your game plan doesn’t work. And never give up.
“All these things are super important and when the time comes, that’s what gives you the opportunity and the advantage to score, to change the game.”
Reading have won six of their seven league games, drawing the other, but Paunovic is not getting carried away. He also believes that there is much more to come.
He said: “In the first half, we had difficulties. This was due to the fantastic preparation of our opponents and the spirit they brought to the game.
“In the second half, the adjustments made and everyone’s commitment led us to a different game in which we felt much better and more comfortable.
“We have not yet been at our best this season. We have not yet reached the form and performances that we are looking for.
“But not because some things go wrong. It is the opposite, it is just a case that we are going through a process. We are forging our identity ”.
Rotherham has not won the league for six games. Paul Warne returned to the touchline after a two-game absence, as he became isolated at home due to family members contracting Covid-19.
“We played very well, especially in the first half,” he said. “We must have around 70% possession. Practically the first time Reading came into our area, in the 41st minute, they took the lead. It was a very hard lesson. And it was his first shot. I’m not sure if that makes me feel better or worse.
“We started better in the second half. I put two up front and we had a couple of chances but I didn’t take them. Then the three of us went to the front and it was time for the kitchen sink. “
Warne said of his absence: “Two of my family members made it. One had it for 12 hours, one has had 10 or 11 days still suffering from fatigue and lack of smell and taste. The family has already gotten over it. Everything is alright.”
