Reading manager Ruben Selles admitted that his side have taken only a “small step” as their 3-2 victory over fellow strugglers Exeter lifted them out of the League One drop zone.

Harvey Knibbs gave Reading an early lead and, after Zak Jules had levelled for Exeter, City defender Alex Hartridge nodded into his own net to restore the home lead.

Dione Rankine made it 2-2 in the 68th minute but Femi Azeez rifled in what proved to be the winner nine minutes later to lift Reading out of the bottom four – above Exeter on goal difference – for the first time since September.

“It has been a l...