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But on Tuesday night a much improved Royals side put in a great performance against Burnley to win 3-0 - to the manager's delight.
Jamie Cureton was again in the goals, he bagged a brace whilst Butler scored his first of the season.
The win, which came in front of a 12,009 strong crowd, should not be over-estimated. The Clarets, who were topping the Division a year ago, are yet to register a point this season.
The first goal didn't come until the second half but Pards was always confident that his side would register their second win of the season.
"We were not disappointed to have a goal by half-time, but after the first goal I always felt that we would go onto win," explained Pardew whilst speaking to readingfc.co.uk.
He added: "We worked really hard, the desire to win the game was excellent. The defence played well and weren't troubled much. The whole team is pleased tonight - we've scored three goals and kept a clean sheet.
"We've now got six points which brings us level with Derby and puts us abovge the other two promoted sides so I think we've done OK."
Jamie Cureton, who has scored six out of Reading's seven goals so far this season, scored an incredible stoppage time third goal to wrap up the win, Pards was certainly impressed by his striker's performance.
"We call that goal 'The Dipper' because we see it in training so often. He lets it come down, doesn't rush and gets a clean strike on it. I thought he was terrific tonight, probably our best player. Curo scored two, made one, and his link-up play was good. He's right on top of hid game at the moment."
Cureton, who was signed for a bargain £250,000 two years ago from Bristol Rovers, is contracted to Reading until the end of the season, the club have, as yet, made it unclearn as to whether he will be offered a new contract.