Reading FC 2-0 Gillingham: Player Ratings

Anssi Jaakkola: 6

Had very little to deal with but looked comfortable on the ball and his distribution was impressive. Produced one outstanding save to deny Gillingham the lead in the second half.

Chris Gunter: 6

A quiet game for the Welshman, who was played out of position as the right-sided centre back in a 3-5-2. Never looked out of place and was confident on the ball, but was rarely tested.

Liam Moore: 6

Produced the kind of confident performance we’ve come to expect of the former Leicester City defender. Enjoyed plenty of the ball and dealt with any threat Gillingham offered. Should’ve done better with one headed effort in the second half.

George Evans: 6

Considerably improved from his sub-par performance on the opening day against QPR. Filled in at centre-back in Ilori’s absence and was impressive on the ball. Defensive capabilities were rarely tested. A typical George Evans performance.

Pelle Clement: 6

Virtually anonymous in the first half but looked a different player entirely in the second. Some neat touches in and around the box. There is certainly potential here, but he still needs to find his best position.

Liam Kelly: 8

The Man of the Match and standout performer. Tough in the tackle and picked up the tempo whenever he was given the ball. A quiet first half cancelled out with two outstanding goals in the second. Now the challenge is to carry this form over to the league.

Andy Rinomhota: 7

Of all the academy boys making their debuts, Rinomhota stood out as a real talent. Quick on the ball and comfortable in possession, the 20-year-old kept play ticking over nicely. Stam now has a lot to think about ahead of Saturday’s clash with Fulham.

Omar Richards: 6

With no winger in front of him, Richards’ attacking freedom was limited, but nevertheless, it was a strong performance for the academy graduate. Never backed out of a challenge and nullified Gillingham’s threat down the right-hand side.

Josh Barrett: 5

Saw very little possession throughout the game and was often harried off the ball. A very underwhelming performance, and with steep competition for the midfield spots, it’s hard to see him featuring much this season.

Sam Smith: 5

Following his impressive performance against Vitesse, Smith would’ve hoped to make a claim for a starting berth in this match. A lack of service limited his impact, but a poor first touch let him down in the box.

Joseph Mendes: 5

As with Smith, Mendes received little service before being subbed off at half time. A few nice touches, but poor movement and a lack of a real cutting edge made this a disappointing performance.

Substitutes

Modou Barrow: 6

Linked up nicely with Clement and caused Gillingham’s defence problems on the counter with his pace. There are questions over his final ball, but this is one to watch this season.

Stephen Quinn: 6

Fresh back from injury, Quinn showed signs of the player that could potentially replace the departed Danny Williams in this side. Changed the game completely when he came on and looked sharp throughout.

Axel Andresson: 6

Slotted into the back 3 and looked at home. Pinged a few outstanding cross-field passes after coming on. Lots to be excited about here, and with the injury crisis worsening, we could be seeing more of the Icelandic youth international this season.

Average Rating: 6