Town were quick out of the blocks and led through Hoskins’ fifth goal of the season before Appéré doubled their advantage before half-time. The hosts came under the cosh in a tense second half but Pinnock’s stoppage-time strike made the points safe. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields...
5. Patrick Brough
This was an evening more about his defensive work than bombing on down the wing and he did his job well. Sensational last-gasp challenge stopped Reading having a one-on-one opportunity moments before Town's third goal... 8 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Shaun McWilliams
The driving force behind Town's fast start and he seemed to cover so much ground in the opening 20 minutes. Landed on second balls, played quickly and played forward and harried opponents out of possession. Helped drag Cobblers up the pitch when they came under mounting pressure in the second half... 8 Photo: Pete Norton
7. Marc Leonard
He was superb in the middle of the park. His quality on the ball set things in motion for Cobblers to dominate in the first half and then he was so tenacious out of possession as Reading applied pressure. Made tackles, interceptions and blocks, and still had the quality to create. Magnificent last-ditch challenge denied Ballard what looked a certain goal... 9 Photo: Pete Norton
8. Mitch Pinnock
At the heart of most things as Cobblers came out firing. Drifted across the front line and caused constant problems with his dangerous passing through and around Reading's defence. Good first-time finish wrapped up an excellent win... 8 Photo: Pete Norton