COCA COLA CHAMPIONSHIP

MATCH REPORT

Nicky Forster returned to the starting eleven partnering Lloyd Owusu in attack. Andy Hughes continued at right back while captain Graeme Murty is sidelined through injury.

Reading managed to take an early lead in the game through an unlikely source, centre back Ibrahima Sonko rose highest from a Nicky Shorey corner to head home in the 13th minute. It was Sonko's first goal for the club. After the goal the game was a tight affair with Watford having quite a bit of possession with a lack of a goalscorer upfront. The Hornets clearly missing the goalscoring prowess of Danny Webber.

Glen Little was unlucky with an effort which drifted just past Paul Jones's post later in the half  Watford enjoyed a good bit of possession near the end of the half with Helguson having their best effort with a shot straight at Hahnemann.

Half Time: Reading 1:0 Watford.

Watford came out second half much more imposing as they pressed for an equaliser. One of Watford's best openings came when on loan midfielder Johnnie Jackson broke through but his control let him down and Hahnemann got down to smother the ball.

But with the pace of Nicky Forster upfront, Reading were always a danger and after missing a couple of earlier opportunities, Forster broke down the left wing before crossing to leave Steven Sidwell with a simple tap in from 12 yards.

Steve Coppell's men even added a third before the end to make the score somewhat flattering. Paul Brooker's cross from the right was met by Lloyd Owusu and his header was to powerful for Jones's.

With other results going Reading's way, The Royals now lie third just two points behind top of the table Ipswich Town.

To see a round-up of all the Boxing Day Championship results please Click Here

Full Time: Reading 3:0 Watford

Man Of The Match: Steven Sidwell

The stand in skipper is an influential part of Reading's team and scored another goal in the win over Watford.

Why not have your say on the game, visit the 1871Royals Message Board

NEXT LEAGUE MATCH

28th December 2004, Deepdale. 3:00 PM Kick Off

Please Click Here for ticket information regarding this game