Brian McDermott was delighted to begin his permanent reign as first team manager with a hard-fought and fully deserved 1-0 home win over Barnsley.

Three days after being given the job full time, Brian saw Shane Long's first half strike separate the two teams and it was a spirited performance throughout from his side.

Jobi McAnuff hit the post as Reading looked to make the second half a little more comfortable, but they were able to stand firm and grind out a very important victory.

Brian said, "This is a big win and I was really pleased with our guys. First and foremost I was delighted with the result but the spirit was excellent as well.

"At 1-0 up it's never easy with a few minutes left, especially when you've not won as many games as you would have liked. In the past 12 months or so things have happened at home right at the end of games but we showed a lot of resolve and character, it was massive that we stood firm.

"I thought we were solid, the two centre halves won a lot of headers, the two midfield players did the ugly stuff but we also played nice stuff at times. We won headers, won tackles and we maybe should have scored more than one.

"Barnsley are difficult to play against, Mark Robins has done a good job there and they are well organised. They've got guys who can score a goal and a presence from set plays.

"After this result we've won two and drawn two at home now, so we're looking to make it really difficult for teams who come here. 2009 has been and gone, we're into 2010 now and if someone is going to take points from us here we want to make sure they have to play well.

"The crowd stayed with us as well. Asking me to give them a wave as well at the end, it was great. I was really, really pleased for them and I just want everyone to be part of things. When I was a player I loved playing at home and I want that to be the same here."

Long was named man of the match after a hard-working display, and the importance of his tidy finish from eight yards cannot be understated. Brian said, "He was excellent, he won a lot of headers and showed what he is about.

"He's been looking after himself, athletically he looked right and he showed pace and power; it was fitting he scored the winner. Against two big centre halves he came out on top."

Three points are always important, but at the end of an emotional week Brian was clearly delighted to win. "It's been a really important period in my life. It (Getting the job] was fantastic and this is the icing on the cake. I was at home last night thinking about how important this game is, and hopefully this can kickstart us in the league."

Last but not least, McDermott paid homage to his close friend Jon Fearn, who enjoyed a win in his last game as first team physio before moving on to Chelsea. Brian nudged him onto the pitch at full time to soak up the applause, and Brian said afterwards, "He's been a fantastic friend to me, we came here pretty much at the same time. I just thought he could have a little lap of honour and I am really pleased for him. He's been a great servant, he's going to Chelsea and I hope he does really well. He's had about 16 leaving dos so far, I've been to every one!"