Sunderland returned to winning ways with a convincing 2-1 victory over Reading at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

On an emotional afternoon that honored the passing away of FA Cup hero Ian Porterfield, Sunderland turned on the style as Kenwyne Jones proved his value for the club by scoring one and creating the other before Reading got one back late in the game to ensure some nervous moments for manager Roy Keane and Black Cats supporters in the end.

Sunderland dominated the first half against a lackluster Reading side and had two early chances to score through Jones and Grant Leadbitter but Marcus Hahnemann was equal to the task and pulled off good saves to deny the home side.

Sunderland took the lead in the 29th minute through a great goal by Jones, who took possession of the ball near the edge of the area, turned Ivar Ingimarsson before smashing a great drive that sneaked inside left-hand post to score his first goal for the club.

Jones had two great chances to double the lead before half time but was unable to hit the target with his header on both occasions. Sunderland finally doubled the lead two minutes into the second half when Ross Wallace latched on to Jones' cross from the right wing before side-footing the ball into the net.

Reading tried to chalk up some response and nearly got one back when substitute Bobby Convey crossed in a great ball but missed both the far post and Dave Kitson. But the visitors finally got one back three minutes from time when Kitson rose high to head home a Nicky Shorey free kick.

Though Reading tried to get the equalizer, Sunderland managed to hold on to their one goal lead to claim their first victory in five games to move up the table.