Lita happy as Boro end losing run

Leroy Lita scored his second goal of the season in the 2-0 win at Reading

Leroy Lita praised his team-mates after scoring against his old club Reading as Middlesbrough returned to winning ways in Saturday's 2-0 away victory.

After defeats against West Bromwich Albion and Leicester, Lita helped stop the rot on his Madejski Stadium return, hitting Boro's killer second goal.

"It was nice to score, but it was a team performance," Lita told BBC Tees.

"The response today was great. The last two games were not the best and we got the three points which is important."

Despite his goal (only his second since joining Boro this summer), Lita was afforded a warm reception from the Reading supporters at the Madejski.

After signing from Bristol City for £1million in the summer of 2005, the Kinshasa-born striker spent four years at Reading (including loan spells at Charlton Athletic and Norwich City) before moving to the Riverside on a free transfer following this summer's release by Reading.

I want Reading to do well, apart from when they come up against Boro

Leroy Lita

And, after hitting 32 goals in 100 appearances for the Royals, helping them to promotion to the Premier League in 2006, he retains an understandable affection for the club.

"I had a great time here," he said. "I played in the best team in the club's history when I was here.

"I'm thankful for the reception I got from the Reading fans and I wish this club and the players and the manager all the best.

"I want them to do well, apart from when they come up against Boro."