Aston Villa kept up their challenge for fourth place in the Premier League with a win at relegation-placed Reading.

"We looked a threat all day, scored some great goals and played openly," enthused Villa chief Martin O'Neill.

"Until we got the second goal it was difficult to breathe easily as we had to pick ourselves up after missing the penalty, but we scored at vital times.

"The second goal sealed the win for us, so we're still in there battling, still competing to finish fourth.

"Barry doesn't miss too many from the spot, but he apologised at half-time where there is no need, as he's pulled us out of a hole more than a few times in the past."