5 Things: Eastleigh (Away)

This weekend saw Reading play their first game of pre-season with a 2-1 defeat to National League side Eastleigh. Jack Simpson took a look at what we can take away from the match.

How the match unfolded

Paul McCallum got the opener 13 minutes into the match, after latching onto a through ball from Mark Yates to slot home past Anssi Jaakola. Reading got themselves level on 78 minutes when Leandro Bacuna’s ball hit the inside of the post and trickled over the line past former Royals keeper Graham Stack.

However, a mistake from Vito Mannone allowed Ben Williamson to stab home the winner four minutes from time.

Andy Yiadom looked impressive

Out of the two new signing that made their first appearance in a Royals shirt, it was Andy Yiadom that caught the eye. He made some brilliant tackles in the first half, as well as making some eye catching runs forward.

Signed from Barnsley, Yiadom was brought in as competition for Chris Gunter. It's safe to say that the Welshman has a fight on his hands if he wishes to keep his place in the team.

Defensive frailties cost Reading again

Just like last season Reading’s defence was at fault for both goals. Liam Moore was caught out for the first goal following Mark Yates’s through ball. Then, for the second goal, Reading failed to deal with the cross which allowed Eastleigh to score their winner.

There is lots of work to be done in this department if the Royals are to have a better season in the Championship.

Harriott looked sharp

Callum Harriott appeared in a Reading shirt for first time in 18 months having played the whole of the second half. He caught the eye with his pace and his crossing, he even could have scored had he directed his header on target.

The former Charlton man could be used as Reading’s secret weapon if he can get fully fit as the Royals fans saw during the 2016/17 season.

Reading lack quality up front

Throughout the whole game, one thing that was evident was the lack of quality up front. Reading struggled to create chances and get shots away on goal. In the first half all three of the Royals’ best chances fell to Mo Barrow with the winger hitting the post on one occasion.

During the second half, Reading were more of a threat thanks to the likes of Leandro Bacuna and Pelle Clement, but the Royals couldn’t finish the chances off when they fell to them.

Paul Clement has said signing one or two quality strikers is the priority for the club with just over a month to go until the transfer window shuts for permanent signings. Reading scored fewer goals than relegated Sunderland last season which something that will need to be addressed if the team are to bounce back from a disappointing campaign.

Now you’ve read this, read our preview for the remainder of the transfer window.