Reading FC Match Report: 2012/2013 Season - Premier League


READING 0 QPR 0

Reading: --
QPR: --

With both clubs resigned to spending next season in the Championship this was never going to be a particularly inspiring fixture. A flurry of corners near the end hinted that Reading might delay the inevitable outcome of their season, but in the end it was fitting that the two weakest teams in the league should grind out a draw which condemns them both to lower division football. (“If you’re all going to Bournemouth – clap your hands” chanted the home fans long before the end.) It must be more galling for Rangers fans having seen their club invest vast sums of money for a very poor return.

Reading were quick to close Rangers down in the opening phase of the game winning the ball in midfield but unable to profit from the possession gained. McAnuff broke through only to be pulled back referee Friend because Clint Hill clumsily tripped over his trailing leg when he mistimed his challenge as McAnuff went past him with ease. Reading probably had the best chance to open the scoring in the first half when the Rangers defence made hard work of dealing with a Guthrie cross. The ball bobbled about before a Rangers boot sent it into the stands. Reading should have had penalty when Guthrie found Kelly running into the box with a delightful diagonal ball. The Reading full back’s first touch was perfect but was unable to get his shot away as a Rangers defender made contact from behind. Reading finished the half with a couple of shots in quick succession, one of which from McAnuff drew a save from Green.

Reading came out for the second half looking for a goal and forced two corners in quick succession. The gloved Taraabt was substituted shortly after missing two good chances with completely miscued strikes at goal. Robson-Kanu came on for Blackman who had looked out of his depth all afternoon and Le Fondre replaced McCleary who had been having an impact. The crowd had been calling for ‘Alf’ to join the fray throughout the game. The changes did little to effect the pattern of the game. Pogrebnyak manoeuvred himself into a scoring position but curled the ball wide and then demonstrated how poor he is in the air by mistiming a header from a good cross when he really should have at least hit the target. Morrison on the other hand powered a header goalwards only to see Green stretch to tip his effort over the bar.

The home crowd sympathetically encouraged their team to the end and applauded them off at the end because they could see Reading were at least trying to play good football. McAnuff is clearly eager impress the new manager and retain his place in the team next season as he continued to play with greater determination than at any stage of the season. Reading, although out of their depth in the Premier League, with the nucleus of a good Championship side, financial stability and a good manager, can look forward to next season with a degree of optimism. Ranger’s future however is not so secure. A squad of expensive players and a debt of £89 million can be a liability. With Harry at the helm they might be wondering if they are the next Pompey.
John Wells

This Premier League game took place 4009 days ago in the 2012/2013 season.