Portsmouth FC 1-2 Reading FC: Instant Reaction

Reading: Al-Habsi, Gunter, Obita, Ferdinand, Hector, Norwood, Williams (Tshibola), Quinn, Robson-Kanu, Blackman (McShane), Cox (McCleary).

Steve Clarke named a strong side for the trip down to the South Coast, making just four changes compared to eight from the hosts. The most promising news for Reading was that Garath McCleary was named among the subs for the first time this season, while Michael Hector returned to the starting lineup for the first time since the opening day defeat at Birmingham.

Reading's best opportunity of the first 45 fell to Hal Robson-Kanu but the Wales International could only hit a tame effort at goal when through on Pompey keeper Paul Jones. Portsmouth had a few half chances of their own but just like Hillsborough last Wednesday, Reading conceded a howler when looking fairly comfortable. A long punt bounced between Michael Hector and the edge of the box but with Royals goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi steaming out to clear, Hector opted to leave it. Sadly, so did Al-Habsi and with neither man taking control of the situation to hack the ball clear, Conor Chaplin took advantage to put Portsmouth 1-0 up.

Reading had successfully come from behind to win just once in sixteen previous attempts under Steve Clarke but perhaps showing that there's a little more guts to this side, that record was soon changed.

First Nick Blackman drilled a low shot home after pass from Cox before substitute McCleary won the game with just six minutes to go after some fine work by Stephen Quinn down the left.

Other than the defensive mix-up, the only other negative was a late injury to Danny Williams that saw the Reading midfielder replaced in stoppage time but aside from that, Reading can reflect on a job done and a place in the third round draw.

This wasn't a classic by any means but having the guts and determination to come back from a goal down to beat a side previously undefeated and who'd knocked out Derby, should still be given some credit. Yes it was League Two opposition but a win is a win and it's now five games unbeaten for Clarke's side in all competitions.

We'll be back with a full report and set of player ratings a little later so stay tuned to The Tilehurst End for that.