Reading beat Newcastle 2-1 in bid to avoid drop

Published Jan. 19, 2013 12:41 p.m. ET

foxsports

Reading boosted its hopes of avoiding relegation while also sinking Newcastle deeper into trouble in a 2-1 comeback win over the Magpies in the English Premier League on Saturday.

Reading's fourth win of the season, and second straight, lifted it to fourth from bottom in the standings, just two points behind Newcastle.

Newcastle dominated the opening half but could beat Reading goalkeeper Adam Federici only once, in the 35th minute, from a fine free kick curled over the wall by midfielder Yohan Cabaye, making his first start since a groin injury in November.

The home side couldn't keep the momentum going after halftime, and Reading struck twice in six minutes through substitute Adam Le Fondre. He connected with Jimmy Kebe's cross in the 71st, and moments later he poached loose ball in the box for the winner.