Reading 1-2 Derby County: Player Ratings

Vito Mannone: 4

Probably could have still been on holiday in the first half as he was barely used, but his culpability for the equalizing goal in the second half showed a chink in Reading’s backline. Could face competition for his position if mistakes like this keep occurring.

Andy Yiadom: 6

A good debut from the new full back, who made his presence count going forward, but, like Chris Gunter, was caught out defensively at times.

Paul McShane: 6

After missing large portions of last season, the Irish centre-back returned to the side with the captaincy and led the side well, with some decent tackles to prove life after Liam Moore might not be so bleak.

Tiago Ilori: 5

Average performance from a squad player who is likely to play more of a role this season.

Omar Richards: 7

The latest academy graduate at Reading, Richards gave a good account of himself in this match, working well in a partnership with Barrow ahead of him. His defending could and should improve over time.

David Meyler: 5

A quiet game from the new midfielder, who showed off his physical prowess in the centre of the park, but earned himself a rebuke from the referee in return. Must avoid turning into another van den Berg.

Liam Kelly: 6

Some decent passes to link up in midfield, but a generally quiet showing from the former boy wonder.

John Swift: 7

Like McShane, has time to make up after an injury-riddled season last year and started well against Derby, assisting Jon Dadi Bodvarsson with some early chances. Was sacrificed in the second half by a tactical change, but hopefully more of the same to come from the Englishman.

Sone Aluko: 6

An average performance from the club’s record-signing, but perhaps suffered from perception due to his fellow winger out-performing him.

Mo Barrow: 8

A stellar performance from the pacey winger, who constantly provided a threat in the opening half. A wonderful cross to provide an assist for the goal, and looks likely to be integral to the team this year.

Jon Dadi Bodvarsson: 6

Missed several good chances in the first half which suggested Reading might struggle with familiar problems this year, but took his goal well by taking control of the box. With plenty of competition in his position, Bodvarsson will need to up his game to remain in contention for selection.

Subs

Sam Baldock 5

A quiet twenty minutes for the new number nine at the club, but probably good match experience for him to start the season with. Hopefully the best is yet to come.

Yakou Meite 5

Didn’t offer much going forward and got himself into a bit of bother after a coming-together with Bradley Johnson

Leandro Bacuna N/A

Average rating: 5.84

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