Reading FC 0-0 Middlesbrough: Player Ratings

Adam Federici - 8

Whilst most of the saves he made were pretty regulation for a Championship 'keeper, Federici had to pull out all the stops to tip a rasping Bamford effort onto the bar, and did well to get to an Adomah header from 12 yards out. It's alarming how often Federici's name now comes up in Man Of The Match and Player Of The Month discussion, but at least he is performing at the top of his game.

Chris Gunter - 7

Gunter has looked far more convincing since the arrival of Steve Clarke, and he made some crucial clearances and generally defended well. He also got forward to support Mackie on the flank, with the pair showing some good understanding to release each other numerous times down the right wing.

Alex Pearce - 6

Was turned once or twice but for most of the game Pearce was solid, with Boro's attacks tending to come down the flanks. Dependable in the air as ever, he could have scored from a goalmouth scramble in the box following a corner.

Michael Hector - 5

Hector looked devoid of confidence on Saturday as he let balls drop that should have been headed away, or cleared straight to Boro attackers. Not his best game, and for me, he still hasn't shown that he is a centre-back going forward.

Jordan Obita - 6

One or two incidents with Boro players off the ball certainly meant Obita was in the thick of the action, but generally he coped well with Adomah and Kalas on his flank. Got forward when possible, and delivered a couple of good set pieces.

Oliver Norwood - 5

One of those days for Norwood who couldn't really get anything going offensively and was withdrawn for Guthrie immediately after a needless foul whilst already on a yellow card. Boro were keen to press at every opportunity and stifle his play.

Danny Williams - 6

Showed willing to run with the ball but, like Norwood, was rather anonymous in a game where Middlesbrough completely dominated the middle of the park. Not afraid to get stuck in either.

Hal Robson-Kanu - 6

An up-and-down game for Hal, who would beat his man then put in a poor cross, or win a foul once then lose the ball the next. Frustration is the normal feeling now with Robson-Kanu, though he has shown flashes recently.

Jamie Mackie - 7

Linked up well with Gunter down the right flank and found himself in space entering the area a few times, though he never managed to find anyone in a Reading shirt. Typically hard-working.

Simon Cox - 5

The game seemed to pass Cox by, as he created very little and didn't have a shot in anger either. In fairness it was a new partnership with Pogrebnyak to get used to, but he didn't influence the game.

Pavel Pogrebnyak - 6

Lasted 55 minutes on his return and showed that he could have a part to play filling Glenn Murray's boots, winning a few headers and working hard - though he didn't manage a shot on target, his best effort a header off target.

Subs

Nick Blackman - 5

Did little to enhance his credentials or convince Clarke that he should be starting up top, as he lost most of his aerial duels and never really threatened the Boro 'keeper.

Danny Guthrie - 6

Came on for Norwood when it looked as though he might be dismissed, and shored up the midfield area, showing he wasn't afraid to put in a tackle.

Jem Karacan - n/a

No rating for Jem as he only got five minutes, but that was all the Reading fans needed. Showed a willing to receive the ball, and put in a couple of strong tackles to show he was over his sixteen month layoff physically and mentally.

So that's how we rated the players - what did you think? Have we been too harsh or too generous? Let us know - and vote for your man of the match below...