The Baggies made it five consecutive home wins at The Hawthorns with their 1-0 win over the Royals, courtesy of Daryl Dike's second-half header.
Lucas Joao almost equalised with five minutes left, but his shot from the edge of the box was deflected just over the crossbar before Baba Rahman headed the resulting corner agonisingly over.
With two minutes left in the regulation time, Super Eagles defender replaced Erik Pieters. The cameo appearance turned out to be his 8th league appearance of the season.
Coach Carlos Corberán says his side's victory over Reading was the best possible way to start the new year.
"I think of course, this is the best way to start the new year, with a win at home.
"We were very, very committed with the game and I was pleased with the squad and the support we are seeing from the fans. That’s the best way to start the year.” Corberán said.
Dare Ogun