Marriott’s glancing header and a close-range volley from Daniel Kyerewaa gave the Royals a 2-0 half-time lead and it proved enough to extend their unbeaten run to four matches.

After an even opening, the hosts broke the deadlock in the 18th minute.

Andy Ritchie’s inviting cross from the right was guided home by Marriott with the faintest of headed touches.

Marriott could have added a second only for Albion goalkeeper Brad Collins to make a fine save from his 20-yard drive.

Collins was left helpless, though, when Kamari Doyle cut in to the byline in the 37th minute.

Doyle’s deflected cross fell nicely for Kyerewaa, who jabbed home for his second goal in consecutive games.

A long-range curler from Jake Beesley thundered against a post, with home keeper Joel Pereira stranded, as Burton responded before the break.

But the visitors offered little going forward in a scrappy second period while Reading were also similarly ineffective in attack.

Collins did well to deny Marriott again and home substitute Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan shot wide as mid-table Reading sealed a profitable festive haul of seven points from three matches.