READING FC came from behind to beat Rotherham 2-1 at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Valentine’s Day evening.
Rotherham took the lead in the 38th minute through Lee Peltier, who rose highest to beat Joe Lumley.
But the Royals responded with a headed goal of their own after the break. Substitute Femi Azeez floated in a free kick which Andy Carroll was able to head home.
Tyrese Fornah’s second Reading goal secured all three points, also a header.
Joe Lumley 6: A far cry from the Reading stopper’s performance in the reverse fixture. Not overly troubled in what was a typically composed showing.
Junior Hoilett 5: Eager to get forward and was a bright spark in the opening exchanges. Had to drop deeper as the first half progressed and was removed at half time.
Andy Yiadom 5: Not the skipper’s best night. Got caught out with balls in behind too often and struggled with his individual duels.
Naby Sarr 6: A decent showing from the defender who stepped up with the ball well at times. His lack of pace was almost costly as Washington broke through.
Amadou Mbengue 6: Another decent showing. Still had a couple of rash moments but was mainly measured in his approach.
Baba Rahman 5: Was ineffective before being replaced in the 41st minute through injury.
Tom McIntyre 6: Once again deployed as the screen in front of the defence and put in an improved performance from last Saturday. Was often left chasing shadows, however.
Jeff Hendrick 6: Found himself in some useful positions in the attacking third but was not able to apply the finishing touch.
Tom Ince 5: Wasn’t as effective as usual, but still offered energy in midfield. Spurned a great opportunity to give his side the lead after a well-worked free kick.
Andy Carroll 7: Rose highest to head home the equaliser and set up the winner. Found himself putting in crosses early on but did well to hold up the ball as the game progressed.
Shane Long 5: Took a hefty knock in the opening stages which probably led to him being replaced at half time.
Subs:
Nesta Guinness-Walker 7: Added a lot down Reading’s left, forming an effective partnership with Azeez. Almost won his side a penalty but the foul was adjudged to have been made just outside the box.
Femi Azeez 8: The game-changer. Reading became far more direct after his introduction. Put in a delightful ball for Carroll to head home.
Tyrese Fornah 7: Did well to grab the winner. Could have got an assist after executing a well-planned set piece earlier in the half.
Scott Dann: N/A
