Reading 1:1 Crewe Alexandra
Madejski Stadium
17th April 04
Attendance: 14,000

Match Report

Reading's frontline for the game was changed again with Lloyd Owusu this time partnering the inform Dave Kitson. Steve Coppell was becoming a bit of a tinker man as he tried to find the best front two for the Royals. It was a must win game for Reading as they looked to keep up their slim hopes of making the Play Off's for the second year running.

It looked like they were up to the task as they took an early lead which would hopefully lead to all three points for the Royals. A ball into the box was poorly dealt with and Kitson headed home for his fifth goal for Reading this season.

After the goal though Reading sat back and invited pressure upon them. Something after the game that manager, Steve Coppell was clearly disappointment with. Reading were playing very deep leaving both the front men on there own upfront and without any sort of support from the midfield.

Crewe had plenty of opportunities to equalise but Ashdown yet again was in good form to keep both Jones and Ashton out. Though it was only a matter of time before the Railwaymen were back in it. They had to wait till five minutes before half time, Sidwell made a clumsy tackle on the edge of the box which left a good opportunity. From the free kick Kenny Lunt hit it over the wall and into the corner of the goal leaving Ashdown with no chance.

Half Time: Reading 1:1 Crewe Alexandra

The second half was not much better then the first as the game reflected a typical end of season game where both teams had not much to play for, although Reading did but they were unable to really breakdown a well organised Crewe team. The frustration was evident with the crowd who were unable to really get behind the team.

Crewe though had plenty of opportunities to take the three points back home with them. With both Ashton and Jones being guilty of missing simple chances. Reading really were fortunate to take a point from a game which realistically ended the Play Off dream especially with all the teams in and around them winning.

Steve Coppell has some big decisions to make going into next weekends game away at high flyers Millwall. With Forster not looking that match fit after coming on as sub and Owusu not having a great game it may Goater's chance to get back in the team or Morgan to reclaim his place in the starting eleven.

Full Time: Reading 1:1 Crewe Alexandra

Man Of The Match: No one really stood out. Although another goal for Kitson gets my vote. Reading could have one very good striker on their hands.

Ref Watch: Made some poor decisions but not that bad overall.

Next League Match

Millwall vs Reading

The New Den, 24th April, 3:00 PM Kick Off.
For ticket information regarding this game - Click Here