McDermott told BBC Berkshire: "We were playing against a Premier League outfit, so we've got to be pleased.
"There was good shape to us, discipline as a group, and within that group we had some great individuals. There were good crosses and good chances."
"We've made out pre-season as competitive as we possibly can, we haven't made it easy for ourselves," he added.
Reading end their pre-season matches with a trip to Southampton to face former manager Alan Pardew.
McDermott is looking forward to meeting up with his former mentor.
"He brought me here in 2000 so I have a lot to thank him for," he said.
"He did a great job for the club before he went on to West Ham, and I know people have their own opinions about that, but for me, if it wasn't for Alan, I wouldn't be working here."
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport