Aston Villa gave themselves a better chance of achieving safety after a crucial 2-1 win over relegation rivals Reading at the Madejski Stadium.

The result lifts Paul Lambert's side out of the bottom three.

It started off badly as Nathan Baker scored a shocking own goal to put Reading ahead but Christian Benteke and Gabby Agbonlahor replied for Villa before half-time.

Bottom side QPR beat Sunderland 3-1 at Loftus Road to make it back to back league wins.

Steven Fletcher gave Sunderland the lead but Loic Remy, Andros Townsend and Jermaine Jenas for Harry Redknapp's side who only remain bottom on goal difference.

West Brom climbed up to seventh thanks to a 2-1 win at home to Swansea. 

Luke Moore gave the Swans the lead before Romelu Lukaku equalised, with the Baggies' winner coming courtesy of a Jonathan de Guzman own goal.

In the other game of the day, Norwich and Southampton finished scoreless at Carrow Road. That point keeps the Saints four points from the drop zone.