Reading boss Noel Hunt hailed his side as 'outstanding' in beating Northampton Town 4-1 for his first win as manager, on his birthday too.

Goals from Sam Smith, Harvey Knibbs, Charlie Savage and Mamadi Camara ensured the Royals eased past the struggling Cobblers to move back into the top six and pick up a first win since Ruben Selles' exit to Hull City.

Speaking after the game, Hunt said: "I thought the boys were outstanding. From minute one we had the right mindset. We wanted to be front-footed and be in their half, which I thought we did really well. We turned them at times and the five up-front were really clear in what they were trying to achieve. I thought we were really strong at the back- I was disappointed with the goal we gave because it was a blatant handball, and it takes the clean sheet away from them. Overall, it was very pleasing.

"You have to keep going and doing the right things. There were moments where we thought we were comfortable, but at the same time I want us to keep doing the right things, the things that got us the two-goal lead and push on to get a goal earlier in the second half. They dug in and I thought they were outstanding.

"These young boys are doing great. It’s tough for them and they’re standing up to the challenge. I thought Andre needed a break after two games close together but when he came on he looked as fresh as a daisy and creates the last goal. I thought Abraham [Kan] was really good today, strong and defensively sound. Our midfield were outstanding in terms of their work rate and effort. I thought Wingy controlled the game and was outstanding."

The birthday boy earned a big win, his first as manager, and was over the moon to celebrate with his players as well as family and friends.

"You always want the first win. I didn’t want to mention that it was my birthday- none of the boys knew until after the game. I wanted it to be about them because they’re the ones on the pitch. If we perform like that and put out those numbers, with that mindset and how we mix it up, we’ll be okay."

Reading host Mansfield Town on Sunday as sixth hosts eighth in League One- the final match of 2024.