Reading FC acquitted themselves excellently against the odds as they were just minutes away from delivering a shock blow to promotion favourites Birmingham City.
The Blues have splashed out more than £14million this summer, compared to Reading who haven’t added a single player to their squad to their ongoing takeover saga.
Despite the disparity in spending, Ruben Selles’ side put on a super performance that saw them frustrate their hosts.
Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan’s first-half goal looked to have been decisive until Birmingham were awarded a late and controversial penalty, which was tucked away by Alfie May as the points were shared.
Joel Pereira 6: Didn’t have an awful lot to do, but looked comfortable when called upon. Only beaten by a late penalty.
Michael Craig 7: Asked to play out of position at right back and did a fine job. Tenacious in the tackle and held his own against some very strong attacking players.
Tyler Bindon 7: has had a busy pre-season away from the club, competing in two international tournaments for New Zealand, including the Olympics. Back alongside Mbengue and looked assured.
Amadou Mbengue 8: A really strong display from the young centre-back who is building a formidable partnership alongside Bindon.
Jeriel Dorsett 6: Passed a late fitness test to start. Lasted 60 mins before being replaced by Abrefa.
Lewis Wing 8: A precise through ball to pick out Ehibhatiomhan for the goal. Really harsh call against him when the ref awarded a penalty to Birmingham late on.
Ben Elliott 8: Grew so much at the end of the season when moved centrally and continued in a similar vein today. He’ll be a vital player for Reading this season
Harvey Knibbs 8: As usual was relentless in the press, as were the whole side right throughout the game. Linked up nicely in attack and helped out defensively. Awarded man of the match by the Sky Sports team
Mamadi Camara 7: A surprise inclusion after Azeez missed out through a back injury, according to Selles. Some bright moments and could have had a goal in the first-half had he connected better with his header which went straight to the keeper.
Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan 9: Superb. Worked tirelessly to set the tone for Reading’s intense pressing. Rewarded with a goal which he took well.
Sam Smith 7: Linked up nicely with Ehibhatiomhan and brought Reading’s attack to life with some seasoned hold up play. Didn’t have many chances in the final third.
SUBS
Kelvin Abrefa 7, Charlie Savage 6, Andre Garcia 7, Jayden Wareham n/a
