Reading 1-3 Manchester United: Boss Marc Skinner says Red Devils are 'here' for Champions League spot

Manchester United boss Marc Skinner said his side "are here" to finish in the Women's Super League top three and qualify for the Champions League after their 3-1 win over Reading.

Leah Galton opened the scoring for the visitors inside five minutes, before Deanne Rose equalised for the Royals.

Galton restored United's advantage before Alessia Russo added a third in a thrilling first half.

"I trust the squad and believe in them," Skinner told Sky Sports.

"[Finishing third] is huge. That is what we are here to do."

United, currently third, are in pole position for the WSL's final Champions League qualification spot.

Their win at the Select Car Leasing Stadium meant Skinner's side went three points clear of Tottenham in fourth and eight points ahead of Manchester City in fifth - who play each other on Sunday.

In their first two seasons in the WSL, the Red Devils have finished fourth on both occasions, and have yet to qualify for the Champions League.

"I want to play beautiful football," added Skinner. "But sometimes you have to go back to rudimental parts and build, scoring scrappy goals as well.

"We have the ability to do both; I've got nothing but credit for my players today."

The visitors were deserved winners having also struck the woodwork twice in the first half through Russo and Ona Batlle.

Gemma Evans hit the crossbar for Reading just before the break with the score at 3-1.

The hosts also forced United keeper Mary Earps into a number of fine saves in the second period, but the away side held on for victory - their fourth league win in seven games.

Reading stayed in sixth, having now lost three of their past four league matches.