Angel Gomes's second-half penalty took Manchester United to the top of Division 2 as they overcame Reading 1-0 at the Madejski Stadium.
Tahith Chong might have given the visitors an early lead with a fierce drive but for a wonderful save on his PL2 debut by Reading’s 15-year-old academy goalkeeper Coniah Boyce-Clarke.
At the other end Matej Kovar did well to deny close-range efforts by Callum Harriott and Ben House in the first half.
The deadlock was broken on 64 minutes when Gomes converted the spot-kick after United's Nishan Burkart had been fouled by Andre Burnley.
Ricky Sbragia’s side held on for the victory that takes them a point clear of Wolverhampton Wanderers, Reading and Southampton at the summit.
See: Reading report | Man Utd report