Ashley Young and Marlon Harewood wrapped up the win even after Gareth Barry missed a first half penalty.
Nicky Shorey grabbed a late consolation with the last kick of the game thanks to another calamitous misjudgement by Scott Carson. The keeper is really struggling to keep his reputation as a bright young stopper after two mistakes in as many away games.
Thankfully Villa had the game done and dusted by the time
Steve Coppell will be wondering what he has to do to get a point but with the lack of firepower it seems evident although the transfer window now seems a long time ago for all at the Madejski and for the Chairman whose stadium bears his name.
Villa will be pleased not only with the three points but with the fact that Kevin Doyle looked so off form. The Irishman was eventually replaced whilst a substitute for Villa by the name of Harewood did the business once again.
It leads you to wonder whether if the Claret and Blue had signed long term transfer target Doyle, Marlon would have even got his chance. The answer is almost certainly NO!
Villa fans will be pleased with their striker who has been a revelation recently and the much doubted Marlon has become somewhat a cult figure. He is like a new signing for Villa, but unfortunately for Reading Doyle is like a man who has outstayed his welcome.