Reading goalscorer Harvey Knibbs holds off Wrexham's Seb Revan
Wrexham's automatic promotion hopes suffered a setback as they lost away to play-off hopefuls Reading.
Ryan Barnett' volley was diverted over the bar in Wrexham's best chance of a first half of few opportunities for both sides.
Reading were awarded a penalty after Eoghan O'Connell was adjudged to have fouled Jayden Wareham and Harvey Knibbs scored from the spot.
The hosts doubled their lead seven minutes later when a fine move ended with Lewis Wing firing past Arthur Okonkwo.
Reading were reduced to 10 men when Michael Stickland was shown a second yellow card with 15 minutes remaining.
Tyler Bindon had an effort saved by Okonkwo while Wrexham's former Reading striker Sam Smith had a header cleared off the line.
Wrexham were below par and defeat saw them fail to move up to second above Wycombe Wanderers, who they visit on Saturday.
Reading are eighth and are now just two points and places off the League One play-off berths.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson said:
"I thought the first half was two teams who both had tough games on Saturday – it was a little bit flat and we probably had the best chance with Barney's chance on the back stick.
"Second half the ref's given a penalty which is one of the worst decisions I've ever seen. If he thinks that's a penalty, then oh my goodness
"Of course he gave them a huge lift and the second goal we could do better with – the lad's played a one-two and we should have done better.
"After that there was the sending off for them which was a poor decision, but we've had plenty of chances – moments I felt that if we'd got one we'd have got back into the game."
Reading head coach Noel Hunt said:
"Really proud of the boys. I thought we were magnificent tonight.
"It was a really good performance from start to finish.
"The belief, the character and the quality – I'm really pleased."
