Emmanuel Adebayor broke the deadlock at the half-hour when he magnificently controlled Kolo Toure's cross before finishing coolly for his 21st of the season.

Eight minutes later, Gilberto Silva claimed his first goal of the season, as his shot was deflected off Andre Bikey's head past the hapless Magnus Hahnemann.

Arsenal spurned a handful of easy chances to make the win more comprehensive, but Adebayor and Co. were done at 2-0.

The best moment of the second half came when Robin Van Persie curling a superb freekick, but the unfortunate Dutchman saw his effort bounce off the woodwork.

The Gunners, who have no hopes for the title, reached their 74th point as they are almost guaranteed third place, while Reading remained 16th with 32 points.