David Moyes hailed Phil Jagielka following his match-winning performance in Everton's victory over Reading.
Everton boss thrilled with victory over Reading
David Moyes hailed Phil Jagielka following his match-winning performance in Everton's victory over Reading.
Jagielka scored the only goal of the game with a clever header from Leon Osman's pass
He also made several crucial interceptions at the back, including one brilliant block from Reading substitute Jimmy Kebe late on.
Moyes told
Sky Sports: "Not only did he score a terrific header, but he also made a saving tackle as well when it looked as though they were certain to equalise."
The Reading players seemed to expect Jagielka's goal to be ruled out for offside but Moyes insists the right decision was made.
Andy Johnson was controversially denied a winner against Blackburn last weekend and Moyes was relieved that lightning did not strike twice.
"It was onside last week and it was onside this week, but this time it was given," he explained.
Reading had contained Everton expertly until Jagielka's goal on 62 minutes and Moyes admits he was impressed with the battling qualities of Steve Coppell's side, who now find themselves in the relegation zone after a seventh consecutive defeat.
He said: "It wasn't pretty and I have to give Reading credit. They are fighting to stay in the division and they made it hard for us right to the end.
"But in the end we got the goal and I think it was deserved because I think we just shaded it on chances in the second half."
