COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP

MATCH REPORT

Leicester started much the better passing the ball neatly around although not creating many openings. Reading were more then happy to play the long ball game aiming for the front pairing Dean Morgan and fit again Dave Kitson.

The first half though was mainly an even contest with both teams cancelling out each other. It was not until the last five minutes of the half that the game came to life. Firstly when Foxes striker Nathan Blake hit the post and then Reading made two goal line clearances before somehow the ball was cleared away.

Reading's best opportunity was created after Dion Dublin, playing at centre back hit a weak back header into the path of Kitson but Reading's top goalscorer was unable to test the keeper as a City defender got back in time to clear the ball.

Half Time: Leicester City 0:0 Reading

The second half was a much more entertaining affair as Reading looked more purposeful going forward. The Royals were well on top and limited Leicester to only half chances down the other end. Steve Sidwell had a golden opportunity to give Reading the lead when more poor defending from City let in Reading's stand in skipper but from an acute angle could only put his shot wide of Stuart Taylor's post. James Harper was also unlucky with a free kick which was well saved by Taylor.

As Reading continued to press the goal finally came. From a free kick near the corner flag,  Glen Little laid the ball back to the edge of the box from where Sidwell hit a stunning shot into the top right of the goal to give Reading a deserved lead.

Though after the goal Leicester did have a good chance to equalise when Jordan Stewart broke down the left hand side and looked to be through before Kitson took him down. Kitson was lucky to escape with just a yellow card. Reading easily cleared the resulting free kick. As the game neared its ending Reading secured all three points with a second. This time from a corner, Ivar Ingimarsson rose highest to head home and finally give those travelling Reading supporters something to cheer about.

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Full Time: Leicester City 0:2 Reading

Man Of The Match: Steve Sidwell

The stand in skipper led by example and scored a fantastic goal to set The Royals on their way to three precious points.

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NEXT LEAGUE MATCH

18th December 2004, Madejski Stadium. 12:45 PM Kick Off (Live on Sky)

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