By Matthew Grant
December 4 2003

Chelsea went through to the next round of the Carling Cup after a hard fought win over Reading. The Royals showed there grit but were unable to avoid defeat against a very strong Chelsea team Steve Coppell stuck with the same team that beat Watford in dramatic fashion on Saturday. This meant Reading continued with the 4-5-1 formation. Claudio Ranieri certainly did not disappoint with his choice of team. Reading the team sheet could have easily frightened the life out of Mackie and Ingimarsson but through the course of the 90 minutes they proved they were up to the task of marking Hasselbaink and Crespo.

Both teams started positively given the game an open feel to it. When Chelsea went forward it was difficult for the Reading defenders to hold onto them but Reading managed to keep them out thanks to Man Of The Match, Marcus Hahnemann. The big American had been criticised a number of times this season but was proven the critics wrong with a number of outstanding saves.

Though the first good chance fell to the Royals. A cross in by veteran, John Salako found the head of Bas Savage whose header was saved very well by ex Tottenham goalkeeper Neil Sullivan. Sullivan was making his debut for the London team since his move from Chelsea's rivals. Though as the first half progressed Chelsea’s were becoming much more threatening on the Reading goal. Crespo blew a number of good chances. His first came when he managed to dig the ball out of his feet and hit a low shot past Hahnemann but the shot it the post, went across the face of goal and went out for a goal kick. He then had another golden opportunity when a ball was crossed into the box but from the penalty spot his shot went flying over the goal.

Half Time: Reading 0:0 Chelsea

Chelsea made one sub at half time with Joe Cole being replaced by Claude Makelele. Chelsea began the second half as they finished the first with Gronkjaer causing step in captain, Graeme Murty a number of problems with his pace. Eventually Chelsea broke the deadlock with influential midfielder, Frank Lampard playing a key role. Great build up play from Chelsea saw the ball fall to Hasselbaink who neatly finished home. Ranieri's relief was clear. Chelsea had finally managed to get past Hahnemann.

Reading had to start coming at the Londoners, and they were not afraid to do so. Forster was doing his best to get the better of England International, John Terry and Bas Savage hassling Babayaro. Coppell decided he needed to change it around with And Hughes making way for Scott Murray. Murray immediately was in the action making a good save out of Sullivan with a long range effort. Reading continued to press the Chelsea defence. Reading's made their second change with Salako making way for the energetic Nathan Tyson. Reading then carved out there best opportunity when Ingimarsson’s header was cleared off the line.

Reading put up a brave fight but were unable to break down Roman's empire but can be proud of there performance.

Full Time: Reading 0:1 Chelsea

Man Of The Match: Hahnemann. Hopefully he can take this form and continue it in the league.

Ref Watch: Bennet was inconsistent but his officials were far worse.

Attendance: 24,105 - A full house at the Madstad!