Ollie Watkins’ 11th goal of the season gave Brentford their fifth league win in six matches and took them up to eighth in the Championship.
The forward headed home Mathias Jensen’s cross on 62 minutes to earn a narrow victory.
The Bees, who have struggled for home form this season, created few clear chances.
Watkins went close early on when he charged down Reading keeper Rafael Cabral’s clearance but saw his effort trail wide.
And Bryan Mbuemo also had two long-range efforts – one saved and another missing the target – before half-time.
The Royals were on top early in the second period and Andy Yiadom shot just wide before Watkins’ goal put the hosts in the driving seat.
Watkins was denied a second by a superb close-range save from Cabral late on.
This post was last modified on 25/11/2019