The Tilehurst End - Leeds United 1-0 Reading FC: Full CoverageReading FC blog run by fans, for fans.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52568/tte_fav.png2018-12-02T21:38:36+00:00http://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/rss/stream/178800042018-12-02T21:38:36+00:002018-12-02T21:38:36+00:00The Tilehurst End Podcast Ep. 177: Red & White Redemption
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<p>Marc McNulty didn’t suffer an entirely bad week as he bounced back from a penalty miss at Leeds to score past Stoke.</p> <div id="0kx9hI"><iframe src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/dzj4r-a0d111?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0" height="122" width="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player"></iframe></div>
<p id="iGa2AB">Redemption came in the form of a headed goal for Marc McNulty on Saturday as the Scot broke his Reading duck with a poacher’s effort just days after flopping from the penalty spot at Elland Road.</p>
<p id="bNRXtY">The Tilehurst End podcast returns this week to look at a contrasting week for the striker with the Royals picking up a point with plenty of late drama along the way. Host Marc Mayo is joined by Matt ‘PannasAndNutmegs’ Lawrence on the show to discuss the 1-0 loss to Leeds United and a 2-2 draw at home to Stoke City, as well as discuss the big news around the club, answer your questions in the mailbag, and look ahead to a live television clash with Sheffield United.</p>
<p id="t0Z6YL">Remember, before that clash Roger Titford will be signing his book <em>Roy Bentley’s Stationary Club</em> in the megastore, as discussed on last week’s show. The book looks into the 1960s period of the club and is on sale for £12 at the Megastore. It’s also available via the When Saturday Comes book shop at https://shop.wsc.co.uk/books.html (postage free).</p>
<p id="MYO59w">The Tilehurst End Podcast can be taken in via <a href="https://thetilehurstend.podbean.com/"><strong>PodBean</strong></a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6aQZnCxP2bn6zlQS5zJOcA"><strong>YouTube </strong></a>or <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fgb%2Fpodcast%2Ftilehurst-end-reading-fc-podcast%2Fid683251263%3Fmt%3D2" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>iTunes</strong></a>. Furthermore, thanks to all listeners who continue to pledge to our <a href="http://www.patreon.com/thetilehurstend"><strong>Patreon </strong></a>campaign.</p>
<p id="HD1Djf">Listeners can always get in touch with the podcast via our Twitter and Facebook pages as well as our email, thetilehurstend@gmail.com, with thoughts on the show, opinions on the team, and potential topics to sink our teeth into always welcome.</p>
<p id="5Jb59M"><a href="https://thetilehurstend.podbean.com/mf/play/8nfi6r/Episode_177.mp3">Download the podcast here.</a></p>
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<h3 id="y8pvd0">Show Order</h3>
<p id="gGepYT">Leeds & Stoke Recap -<strong> 02:47</strong></p>
<p id="rs5bgg">Newsbites -<strong> 14:42</strong></p>
<p id="wi0QCV">Mailbag - <strong>21:14</strong></p>
<p id="Oa3G9m">Sheffield United Preview - <strong>29:56</strong></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/12/2/18122713/reading-fc-podcast-tilehurst-end-stoke-leeds-mcnultyMarc MayoPannasNutmegs2018-11-30T14:00:11+00:002018-11-30T14:00:11+00:00Leeds United 1-0 Reading: The Alternative View
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<figcaption>Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Nearly, oh very nearly. </p> <p id="crj5Sq">After a disappointing game against Wigan Athletic, where I am still convinced that a different line-up would have seen us secure three points, Reading travelled over the Pennines to visit Elland Road and a much improved Leeds side who are riding high in the play-off positions (well until their traditional Christmas when they bottle it). </p>
<p id="LAGZ0p">I don’t think there were many Reading fans who actually expected to get anything out of the game, and after a dogged performance in defence in the first half, Leeds stepped up in the second and two impact subs (Clement take note) at half-time swung the game into Leeds’ favour. That was right up till the last 15 minutes when Reading decided to play again and with the finest of margins (<em>Clementism</em>) Marc McNulty missed a glorious attempt to get a point - which would have been a remarkable haul, considering our current form.</p>
<p id="LlbsQh">The social scene really focussed around four things: Anssi making some superb saves (Buffon-esque as one Leeds fan put it), Alioski’s swan dive, Gunter losing his head and trying to give Leeds a penalty, and the save at the end from Peacock-Farrell.</p>
<p id="mXd0ZD">It’s amazing how history keeps repeating as this was exactly the same last season apart from being in reverse!</p>
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<h2 id="MbW40o"><strong>Social</strong></h2>
<h3 id="1LJ6jR"><strong>Sums up everyone’s thoughts on that dive from Alioski</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Alioski... If you're gonna dive lad at least make it look a bit believable. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/suLZUdt37O">pic.twitter.com/suLZUdt37O</a></p>— Jay (@jaymerry91) <a href="https://twitter.com/jaymerry91/status/1067516568979034114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="CgPVMM"><strong>Action replay!</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> And we can take a look at a replay of Alioski's penalty shout just before half-time...<br><br>⚽️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a> 0-0 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/i5UQoS88J7">pic.twitter.com/i5UQoS88J7</a></p>— Sporting Life Football (@SportingLifeFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportingLifeFC/status/1067519016057610240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="E5Flol"><strong>How about a little credit eh...</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We've a frustrating habit of making poor teams look better than they actually are...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LEEvREA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LEEvREA</a></p>— Terry O' Brien (@tobtipp) <a href="https://twitter.com/tobtipp/status/1067523098918957057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="Obn2QX"><strong>Most games for Reading fans</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Me during that game. Phew. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a> <a href="https://t.co/P9ntsrYt6w">pic.twitter.com/P9ntsrYt6w</a></p>— Chaz Cole (@chaz_coleman) <a href="https://twitter.com/chaz_coleman/status/1067533803978190848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="eLAA87"><strong>Really? In that case Danny Loader should be in it, how many goals this year!</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Best Young players (U23) ITW<br><br>-Mbappe<br>-Sterling<br>-Martial<br>-Alli<br>-Sancho<br>-KALVIN PHILLIPS<br>-Dembele<br>-Sane<br>-Gomez<br>-Torreira<br><br>Debate:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a></p>— Raul Robertson (@Russsdawwg) <a href="https://twitter.com/Russsdawwg/status/1067535859338100736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="P1s1NI"><strong>Come on, you’re on TV most weeks</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">What I’ll never understand is how bias Sky Sports are... flooding the studio full of opposition players/former players and absolutely no representation from Leeds (David Prutton obviously doesn’t count) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LeedsUnited?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LeedsUnited</a></p>— Nathan Robertson (@NathanRmusician) <a href="https://twitter.com/NathanRmusician/status/1067537984881418241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="hz9OcZ"><strong>Every year... £47 quid a ticket, Tuesday night, on TV, rubbish form... lightbulb lit yet?</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shout out to the 5 Reading fans that made the journey for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a> game, unlucky on the result, at least you’ll all fit into one Uber XL for the journey home! <a href="https://t.co/JIyO2U5ffQ">pic.twitter.com/JIyO2U5ffQ</a></p>— milo (@mulberrymilo) <a href="https://twitter.com/mulberrymilo/status/1067551179167727617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="J0fQ55"><strong>RIP Gary</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gary Speed was definitely looking over us tonight and helped us get all 3 points. Gone but never forgotten. RIP Speedy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MOT?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MOT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GarySpeed?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GarySpeed</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/leeds?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#leeds</a> <a href="https://t.co/uf6yIVJIKe">pic.twitter.com/uf6yIVJIKe</a></p>— Gary Fleming (@garyfleming7) <a href="https://twitter.com/garyfleming7/status/1067536087193665536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="woXh85"><strong>Media</strong></h2>
<p id="pLwVJO">Starting with <a href="https://thisisfutbol.com/2018/11/blogs/championship/goodman-alioski-dive-was-horrible/">This Is Footbal</a>l and they carry an interview with Don Goodman, everyone’s favourite pundit (not!) slamming Alioski for the “horrible” dive aginst Reading. Many pundits are now starting to ask for punishments against offenders to be a lot harsher to drive this part of the game out.</p>
<p id="Xi4GUG"><a href="https://www.football.london/reading-fc/reading-fc-boss-paul-clement-15474336">Football.London</a> have the usual wrap of stories around Reading including the player ratings, which I found particularly harsh again, and also some nuggets from the interview with Paul Clement.</p>
<p id="bhwaM2">Down at <a href="http://sport.bt.com/news/dallas-and-peacock-farrell-earn-victory-for-leeds-S11364313955839">BT Sport</a> and they carry a Leeds report, about Leeds, mentioning Leeds, and oh yes Reading. <a href="https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/leeds-united-1-reading-0-peacock-farrell-produces-penalty-heroics-to-earn-whites-victory-1-9465307">The Yorkshire Evening Post</a> also carry a full report of the game, although they seem to have caught the Sun’s bug of getting the scoreline wrong, as they have it as both a 1-0 win in the headline and a 2-0 win on the picture credit. Someone doing some pre-work there eh? What expectations did we have?</p>
<p id="zXmzbs"><a href="https://www.skysports.com/football/leeds-vs-reading/video/392761">Sky Sports</a> have 3.36 min of coverage of all Leeds’ attacks - not the dive tho - and also have an interview with Clement. He states that Leeds were hanging on in the second half. I’ll give him his dues though for giving credit to the academy. Sky’s <a href="https://www.skysports.com/football/leeds-vs-reading/report/392761">report</a> is brief but their player ratings are interesting, with Chris Gunter getting a 7… make of that what you will.</p>
<p id="c2pMHO">Finally, over at the <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/46270408">BBC</a>, they actually mention Reading the most calling it a “narrow win” and heap praise on Reading’s Finnish version of Gianluigi Buffon.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="XVxFkf">
<h2 id="mVrbh8"><strong>Summary</strong></h2>
<p id="W3ydR7">I really can’t help but think how, over the last few games, Reading have missed wonderful chances to pull away from the relegation zone. I’m still convinced that we could and should have, with the correct team and formation, got the three points from Wigan. And against Leeds arguably we deserved a point.</p>
<p id="uiqIed">The game at Elland Road was immensely frustrating, the first half being one of the most disciplined performances we have given, but in the second Leeds stepped it up and the introduction of two subs at half-time made a massive difference. </p>
<p id="C1MWE0">It was obvious from the first 45 that we didn’t create an awful lot. Danny Loader had a couple of opportunities, but Yakou Meite couldn’t get in the game. We are quick to hammer forwards when they aren’t scoring but in reality, shouldn’t we be pointing the finger at the distinct lack of chances that are created for them?</p>
<p id="8uQ8gU">John Swift once again cut a lonely figure. While he was better than at Wigan, he still is struggling to create anything meaningful for the forwards. This is where Leeds got us on Tuesday. The subs at half time made a huge difference, and maybe if Clement had changed his side at the break by introducing one of our more creative players then this could have had an impact on the game. </p>
<p id="CxXDs8">Positives from the game - plenty. The tenacious spirit in the first half was to be admired as we didn’t give Leeds a chance to build. The current form of Andy Rinomhota is excellent, Danny Loader is making an impact and Tiago Ilori was probably the stand-out defender.</p>
<p id="4Xxqbe">The negatives were also plenty though, mainly around the form of the full-backs who for me both didn’t play as well as they both can, and the Swift/Kelly partnership which I’ve said before and will again doesn’t work. How do we change this team? Current injuries aren’t allowing a great deal, but with the academy contributing, maybe that’s the direction we need to go further in.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/30/18118372/leeds-united-1-0-reading-fc-the-alternative-view-royalsdavemc_exile2018-11-30T11:00:06+00:002018-11-30T11:00:06+00:00Further Reading: How The Royals Frustrated Leeds United
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<img alt="Leeds United v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/UZjWtyPXPga2IVIeAgRUlHhozKE=/0x0:3189x2126/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62599869/1073314964.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by George Wood/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A tactical look at Tuesday’s 1-0 defeat at Elland Road. </p> <p id="9n5nfh">It’s been a few days since the disappointment of a missed opportunity of a point against promotion-chasing Leeds United. The calls for Paul Clement’s head are slightly more subdued than before Tuesday night after a well-drilled away performance. I’ve placed the microscope on how Reading lined up at Elland Road and how Marcelo Bielsa’s half-time changes made all the difference. </p>
<p id="pO1brx">The major talking point ahead of kick-off was the Reading team-sheet, with the Royals appearing to line up in a midfield diamond. This featured Liam Kelly at the base, flanked by the physical presences of Leandro Bacuna and Andy Rinomhota, with John Swift operating in the number ten role. In reality though, Reading set up in a 4-3-3 out of possession with Swift shifting over to the left; Yakou Meite central and Danny Loader on the right. </p>
<p id="ZPlrc1">This was done to nullify the threat of Leeds’ full-backs, in particular Barry Douglas, who has averaged 1.9 key passes per 90 minutes. The result ultimately came down to a failure to suppress Douglas - the man who supplied the cross for Stuart Dallas’ decisive goal. </p>
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<figcaption>Reading’s midfield when out of possession</figcaption>
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<p id="lQ0nfw">It was intriguing to see how Kelly operated as the middle man when out of possession. He would often start as the deepest lying midfielder, screening the defence. However, it appeared he was under instruction to press Leeds’ deepest lying midfielder when receiving the ball, with Bacuna and Rinhomota dropping into double pivot behind. </p>
<p id="jzqtI5">Therefore, this wouldn’t allow the home side easy ball progression from deep areas of the midfield, with the ball forced wide. This tactic worked well in the first half, limiting the number of touches the Leeds’ midfielders playing ahead of Forshaw had in central areas. </p>
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<figcaption>Liam Kelly pushes out to put pressure on Leeds</figcaption>
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<p id="EVBQPb">Reading looked to employ a similar tactic in the second half following its earlier success. However, the introduction of Samuel Saiz for Ezgjan Alioski at half-time altered the Leeds midfield, with Saiz looking to operate more centrally within the highlighted red area of the pitch. </p>
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<cite>WhoScored</cite>
<figcaption>First-half touches: Klich, Hernandez, Baker and Alioski </figcaption>
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<p id="QXk71P">A comparison between the touch maps of Alioski and Saiz shows the contrast not only in the areas of the pitch in which they operated, but also how they influenced the game, with Saiz (38) having over double the number of touches as Alioski (16).</p>
<div id="ZaxxZQ"><div data-anthem-component="imageslider:2182415"></div></div>
<p id="Qzy7yk">As a result of Saiz moving more centrally, one of Rinomhota or Bacuna were forced to pick him up, increasing the amount of distance required to cover in order to provide support to Reading’s full-back. This, coupled with a lack of protection from Reading’s wingers, resulted in Leeds getting more joy down the flanks which the likes of Douglas exploited. The Scot registered five ‘key passes’ (passes leading to chances), with a number of good opportunities coming via his crosses - including the goal.</p>
<p id="KSRcoB">With Paul Clement’s job under the microscope, this was always going to be a tough test away to a talented Leeds side with against arguably the Championship’s best manager. There were definite signs of improvement in how the Royals’ team was set up, with them looking far more compact in midfield than they have done previously. Fragility within this area of the pitch has been a contributing factor to the reason Reading have shipped 30 goals in 19 games this season. </p>
<aside id="51fdp4"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Leeds United 1-0 Reading: Resilient Royals Edged Out At Elland Road","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/27/18115095/leeds-united-1-0-reading-fc-resilient-royals-edged-out-at-elland-road"},{"title":"Leeds Player Ratings: Rinomhota, Ilori Impressive, Gunter And Swift Poor","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/28/18114943/leeds-united-vs-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-lilywhites"}]}'></div></aside><p id="KQLgyK">The performance against Leeds seems to have found the most stable midfield options currently available. Clement looks to be tailoring the system to get the best out of those midfielders, using the physical capabilities of Bacuna and Rinomhota to cover the pitch horizontally, providing support to the full-back.</p>
<p id="1oifrf">However, the most promising signs are that the work being done on the training ground is being implemented on the pitch. This can clearly be seen in pressing triggers (actions by the opposition which prompt Reading to start pressing) being worked on to nullify the threat of the opposition - for example Kelly pushing up the pitch at certain moments. </p>
<p id="giImyD">I do not think Clement can be blamed for the way in which the team was set up, having nullified the opposition in the first half. However, it could be argued that he did not respond quickly enough to the changes made by Leeds, and was ultimately out-thought by Bielsa. </p>
<p id="mv53dF">He certainly won’t be the last.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/30/18119301/further-reading-fc-how-leeds-united-unlocked-a-well-drilled-royals-side-elland-roadPannasNutmegs2018-11-30T08:00:02+00:002018-11-30T08:00:02+00:00Stats Corner: Wasteful Dribbling
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<img alt="Leeds United v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rOOuurdVEyebk-5Ld9vaUDLspok=/0x0:4560x3040/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62577875/1073354126.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by George Wood/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Reading are good at running with the ball, but can’t take advantage. </p> <p id="J3uvai">The general consensus floating around amongst Reading fans is that Tuesday night’s display was fairly positive, despite the result and last-minute penalty miss. However, there was still something severely lacking from the performance. That something was the lack of a potent threat in the final third. </p>
<p id="YDqWkj">For all the nice, neat passages of possession, and the surging runs of Andy Rinomhota, Leandro Bacuna and Garath McCleary, there wasn’t really much to show for it. What really cried out to me was our toothlessness in the final third. Good possession and good moves were wasted, and our one clear-cut chance came from a set piece – Marc McNulty’s saved penalty.</p>
<h3 id="9sw0T6"><strong>Going on a run</strong></h3>
<p id="ugWiWL">It was our dribbling ability which really stood out to me - our willingness to run at Leeds United’s defence to make something happen. This is backed up by WhoScored’s stats which show Reading attempted 21 dribbles with a 62% success rate, higher than Leeds’ 55%. We also had three of the top five dribblers in the match overall, including Andy Rinhomota (six) and Andy Yiadom (four).</p>
<p id="JmxsZG">However, for all the promise in this area, on only 11 occasions did a Reading player dribble past their opposition defenders with an end product to show for it – compared to 13 for Leeds even though they attempted fewer dribbles over the course of the game. The top five players for successful dribble are made up of three Reading men (McCleary, Bacuna and Swift) and two Leeds players (Douglas and Roofe). </p>
<p id="FCZCWk">But it’s the players in white who make up the top two of that list with five and three respectively - two more than McCleary, Bacuna and Swift managed between them. Yiadom and Rinomhota - who remember were the top two players on the pitch for attempted dribbles - don’t even make the top five, or the top ten in fact. By WhoScored’s definition of a successful dribble they managed zero from ten attempts!</p>
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<img alt="Leeds United v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LhGtlwo_qTZJHQUsgd6huOXCwtk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/13590091/1073312308.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by George Wood/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Andy Yiadom needs to sharpen up his dribbling skills</figcaption>
</figure>
<h3 id="sfLyxC"><strong>What does this all tell us? </strong></h3>
<p id="bSZpgQ">Well it tells us that, despite an awful lot of attempts at making chances, the Royals aren’t creating enough, and this pattern didn’t just appear in the Leeds game. Reading have the seventh highest dribbles per game record in the league this season (7.3), but the third worst shots per game ratio (11.1). </p>
<p id="koKEkf">We also have the fifth worst record for crosses per game – an average of 17 per match. Rather worryingly, only two other teams this season, Swansea and Sheffield Wednesday, have spent less game time in the opponent’s third. Reading, on average, spend just 24% of matches in this part of the pitch.</p>
<p id="Nk8iPV">The fact we’re attempting so many dribbles - and are still spending so little time in the final third - tells us another thing about the way Reading are being set up this season: to try and break teams down on the counter. And that certainly appeared to be Paul Clement’s choice of tactic on Tuesday night. </p>
<aside id="eyAD1O"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Leeds United 1-0 Reading: Resilient Royals Edged Out At Elland Road","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/27/18115095/leeds-united-1-0-reading-fc-resilient-royals-edged-out-at-elland-road"},{"title":"Leeds Player Ratings: Rinomhota, Ilori Impressive, Gunter And Swift Poor","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/28/18114943/leeds-united-vs-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-lilywhites"}]}'></div></aside><p id="qBr7D2">Yet, rather damningly if this is the way things are being planned, Reading have actually scored a grand total of NO counter attacking goals this season (again according to WhoScored). That stat isn’t worrying in itself, as we’re not the only team to have not scored on the counter this season. But when you look at the company we’re in on that list – Leeds, Norwich City, Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough – you realise those are teams not set up to win games counter attacking. They’re teams in the top eight who control their games rather than nicking it on the break. So, what are we doing? Really? </p>
<p id="qAekm7">I’m a big believer in giving Clement more time (shields from oncoming missiles) but for all those fans who criticise his lack of a game plan, perhaps they’re right? The stats show we’re trying to play on the counter, but don’t match up with any sort of success rate. It clearly doesn’t appear to be a game plan that’s working, which for me is just ever so slightly worrying.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/30/18118424/stats-corner-sloppy-dribbling-reading-fc-royalsTom_Harrow_Smith2018-11-29T07:30:05+00:002018-11-29T07:30:05+00:00Leeds United Fans Verdict: Last Minute Penalty Miss Costs Reading
<figure>
<img alt="Leeds United v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7G3lBZl-zNUbwn_BJ-ZMdjyljEM=/0x0:3939x2626/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62427035/1073354124.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by George Wood/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Reading’s three-game unbeaten run came to an end at the hands of high flying Leeds on Tuesday night.</p> <p id="taeaU4">Reading started a tough period of games with a solid performance at Elland Road, but again the lack of killer touch shone as they fell to a 1-0 defeat. Not many people have said this so far this season, but Clement got his tactics spot on on Tuesday night, adopting the same narrow 4-3-3 he did against Wigan. In the first half especially, Reading managed to nullify any threat that Leeds posed.</p>
<p id="QQpqxm">Defensively sound and causing a few problems on the break against one of the top teams in the division, Reading were looking good for a point until a scrappy Stuart Dallas goal midway through the second half.</p>
<p id="r0X4ST">And then - in the 89th minute - substitute Josh Sims was fouled in the area, and goalless Marc McNulty stepped up to gain a well earned point for the Royals. Only to be denied by Bailey Peacock-Farrell, in what you feel could be a huge moment in our season.</p>
<p id="Mb06b3">Here’s how the fans reacted to some of the key talking points from Tuesday nights game...</p>
<h2 id="MSTrvd"><strong>The performance</strong></h2>
<p id="dO0Un8">I think the majority of the fans were expecting the worst heading to Elland Road, but the Royals put in a very respectable performance. The narrow 4-3-3 didn’t really work on Saturday against Wigan, but it did against Leeds.</p>
<p id="ealLuy">Clement chose the right personnel in the right areas with Loader and Swift deployed further up the pitch behind Meite, with much more steel in midfield with the reintroduction of Leandro Bacuna.</p>
<p id="mBnOFR">Leeds caused few problems, especially in the opening 45. And in the second half, Reading hung on and limited them to very few clear cut chances. It was definitely a performance to be proud of, but also needs to be matched with results sooner rather than later. Here’s what the fans had to say about the performance.<br></p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">That was a good performance, let down by a couple of individuals. So frustrating <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— tilehurst royal (@tilehurstroyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/tilehurstroyal/status/1067533205711069186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gutting, great performance but wasn’t to be. <a href="https://twitter.com/sparkymcnulty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sparkymcnulty</a> head up lad <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Alex Stone (@_alexgstone) <a href="https://twitter.com/_alexgstone/status/1067533980101197825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<div id="7lIJWj">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">That's a pleasing performance tbh. Held our own against one of the best sides in the league. Rinomhata outstanding today imo. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a></p>— Sam (@SamJ_RFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SamJ_RFC/status/1067535492378447872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Can’t remember many better performances than that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Pervy Wink (@MadStadBlues) <a href="https://twitter.com/MadStadBlues/status/1067541658751959040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="PT1VXN"><strong>Academy products</strong></h2>
<p id="rv3jaP">One of the biggest criticisms fired towards Clement has been the lack of academy products being brought through into the first team. But you do have to give credit to the way he’s bled Loader and Rinomhota into the first team setup. </p>
<p id="bSLjEw">Rinomhota looks a class act. Comfortable on the ball, tireless and tenacious - filling that enormous Danny Williams shaped hole that’s been missing in our midfield ever since the American left for Huddersfield. Rinomhota was very impressive against Leeds, and has looked more than at home in the Championship ever since his first start against Bristol City. </p>
<p id="TkK14i">Danny Loader got his first start for Reading also, and showed glimpses of the obvious quality he has. He looked hungry and strong, and showed he could be an important player for the Royals. There’s nothing the Reading fans love more than one of their own coming through the system, and the future looks bright within our academy.<br></p>
<div id="0pGXlK">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rinomhota and Loader look excellent and putting others to shame <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Lee Wyeth (@leewyeth) <a href="https://twitter.com/leewyeth/status/1067522334528086017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Love the fact that Rinomhota and Loader are getting first team experience, just need a little bit of luck on our side to gain a few points! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/URZ?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#URZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a></p>— Mikey (@mikeykeel19) <a href="https://twitter.com/mikeykeel19/status/1067730267937415168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2018</a>
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<div id="lPS8jM">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">With performances from the young lads like that tonight, it’s a wonder why we we recruited so many average players in the summer. Trim the squad & persist with these younger talented players <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Jeff H (@jeffhallett) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeffhallett/status/1067550502379012097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<div id="0e6Flc">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Andy Rinomhota looked great tonight, very positive performance, Loader done well too, definitely want to see more Academy players in the first time squad! Need young and hungry players in the team now! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/urrrrrzzzzz?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#urrrrrzzzzz</a></p>— James (@B3rt1e) <a href="https://twitter.com/B3rt1e/status/1067535585034801152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="0GF4nO"><strong>The penalty</strong></h2>
<p id="6Mk41s">Just like at Aston Villa earlier in the season, it looked like Reading had found a way to grab a point after a solid defensive performance. However, unlike Sam Baldock, Marc McNulty couldn’t convert his last-minute spot kick. </p>
<p id="6L0wul">In fairness, it was a fantastic save from Peacock-Farrell, but at this stage in the season, with where we are in the table, it’s a chance that really had to be taken. Fair play to former Coventry City man for stepping up, but if I were Bacuna or McCleary, McNulty wouldn’t be getting near that ball.</p>
<p id="t9xhuI">The Royals just have to hope that that moment doesn’t come back to bite them later on in the season. It was certainly the biggest talking point on Twitter after the game...<br></p>
<div id="i4M6MF">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">You cannot slate McNulty. Yes I agree he wouldn’t be my first choice penalty taker but he can’t have struck it much better, great save by their keeper. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Jacob Potter (@pott95) <a href="https://twitter.com/pott95/status/1067541193020588032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<div id="Unvlww">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Really feel bad for Mcnulty was a great penalty and a chance to get his confidence up☹️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— adot (@Alfie_Eaton01) <a href="https://twitter.com/Alfie_Eaton01/status/1067542360870068224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<div id="bEQ9Ko">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">No issues with McNulty wanting to take that penalty. It’s a striker’s job to score goals. I’d be more upset if he didn’t want to take it. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Thomas (@blickbuster) <a href="https://twitter.com/blickbuster/status/1067704515598659584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="KNl7mY"><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p id="cJNxNq">Overall, a tough one to take. But a performance that needs to be backed up with results. It doesn’t get any easier with Stoke visiting the Mad Stad on Saturday afternoon, but I’m sure there will be confidence within the squad.</p>
<p id="nUM7Ga">It’s a game where we really need three points, or else we are in danger of sliding away from the rest of the pack and finding ourselves in deep trouble.</p>
<p id="d9LbEO">URZ</p>
<aside id="cYwILY"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Leeds United 1-0 Reading: Resilient Royals Edged Out At Elland Road","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/27/18115095/leeds-united-1-0-reading-fc-resilient-royals-edged-out-at-elland-road"},{"title":"Leeds Player Ratings: Rinomhota, Ilori Impressive, Gunter And Swift Poor","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/28/18114943/leeds-united-vs-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-lilywhites"}]}'></div></aside>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/29/18116630/leeds-united-fans-verdict-last-minute-penalty-miss-costs-reading-fc-royalsharry.chafer2018-11-28T13:31:13+00:002018-11-28T13:31:13+00:00Paul Clement: Reading Showed Courage And Personality In Leeds Defeat
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<img alt="Aston Villa v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/H4FurI96Zd9JZK39g_IFhHPXYqs=/0x0:4692x3128/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62419617/941490108.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The manager reacts to the 1-0 loss at high-flyers Leeds. </p> <p id="OlC5So">The Royals will feel incredibly unlucky after a good performance at Leeds United ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat. Reading definitely deserved to leave with a point after Leeds took the lead early in the second half, and we had our chance to pick up an important point right at the death when Josh Sims was fouled in the penalty area. Marc McNulty stepped up but his effort was saved by Bailey Peacock-Farrell.</p>
<p id="L5kZD0">Paul Clement was pleased with his team’s performance and energy, and spoke to both the <a href="http://www.readingfc.co.uk">official club website</a> and <a href="https://www.football.london/reading-fc/reading-fc-boss-paul-clement-15474336">Football.London</a>.</p>
<h3 id="xURWfF"><strong>Clement on the performance</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="f5lIYQ">”I’m pleased with everything apart from the result. I’m absolutely proud of the players tonight - they did everything that I asked in terms of putting in a performance against one of the best teams in the division in front of nearly 30,000 fans.</p>
<p id="DO6iZA">”We played with courage and personality in a stadium that is very passionate. We played some good football, we defended, we ran hard. We did everything but score the goal that we needed. We had opportunities...and not just the penalty at the end.</p>
<p id="5das5X">”So I’m proud of the way that the players approached the game, and the disappointment is that we didn’t at least come away with a point. I think we deserved more. Anyone watching that game today not knowing which team was where in the league wouldn’t have been able to tell who was second and who was near the bottom end of the table.</p>
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<aside id="ssajXJ"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Leeds United 1-0 Reading: Resilient Royals Edged Out At Elland Road","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/27/18115095/leeds-united-1-0-reading-fc-resilient-royals-edged-out-at-elland-road"},{"title":"Leeds Player Ratings: Rinomhota, Ilori Impressive, Gunter And Swift Poor","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/28/18114943/leeds-united-vs-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-lilywhites"}]}'></div></aside><blockquote>
<p id="NO9u64">”The players were dead on their feet at the end – both sets of players. They gave absolutely everything. And I saw Leeds, a team that are now second in the Championship, hanging on at the end against us. We were the team advancing forwards and creating chances.</p>
<p id="ozwODg">”So it’s a strange feeling. Because as a professional, you want to win games and points. But that might be one of the best games we’ve played this season.”</p>
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<h3 id="CEMISj"><strong>Clement on Marc McNulty’s penalty</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="4TSVs6">”It was a good save – and that can happen at any moment in the game when you get a penalty. It’s just at that moment it’s a real sickener! But Marc stood up and took responsibility in a real high-pressure moment. On another day that will go in.</p>
<p id="tsVXlu">“Our number one penalty taker was going to be Liam Kelly but he was off the pitch. Number two was Swift, he was off the pitch. So at that moment, the players have got to sort it out amongst themselves.</p>
<p id="COYdnY">“And fair play to Marc, he stood up and had the courage to take it. He went straight for the ball. And the keeper made a good save. The keeper dives the other way, we have a point. But he didn’t. It happens.”</p>
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<h3 id="IBrRdp"><strong>Clement on Danny Loader’s first start</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="fClW4Z">“He has been really good. He is strong physically, tactically he is bright. He got tired at the end but there was a lot of adrenaline and emotion in the game.</p>
<p id="Qc2ty2">“He got through 90 minutes playing in an iconic stadium playing against a good side so it’s a brilliant experience for him and great for our academy.</p>
<p id="LHfAFO">“Loader, Kelly and Rinomhota all in the team and I was pleased with all of them. I was proud of all the players for the effort they put in.”</p>
</blockquote>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="H0XZ3S">
<p id="wipoLA"><em>Is Paul Clement’s post-match assessment right? Tell us in the comments below or on social media. </em></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/28/18115852/paul-clement-praises-reading-fc-courage-and-personality-after-leeds-united-defeatsophierfc102018-11-28T07:33:07+00:002018-11-28T07:33:07+00:00Leeds Player Ratings: Rinomhota, Ilori Impressive, Gunter And Swift Poor
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<img alt="Leeds United v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GeV3GN4hlX1DFH9zc2wuw_OCcLA=/0x0:4284x2856/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62419035/1073356782.jpg.0.jpg" />
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<p>How the Royals performed in their narrow defeat at Elland Road. </p> <h3 id="MgiceG"><strong>Anssi Jaakkola: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="1Laj9D">Made a top save from Kemar Roofe to keep the scores level, and wasn’t really at fault for the goal. Better distribution than usual. </p>
<h3 id="44HTxN"><strong>Andy Yiadom: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="KMrRWs">Got forward well in the first half but pegged back more in the second. He was doubled up on in the build-up to the goal and couldn’t really deal with the danger, but he’d made a huge block at the start of the half to stop a certain goal. </p>
<h3 id="c9Pk7v"><strong>Tiago Ilori: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="9a1drR">Read the game very well, made plenty of interceptions and blocks, and won his headers. On the whole he looked composed as you’d expect from him, and he’ll be unlucky if he’s dropped on Saturday.</p>
<h3 id="sHt3Zr"><strong>Liam Moore: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="7frqfv">Composed and solid like Ilori but to a less noticeable extent. Mopped up most trouble that came his away. </p>
<h3 id="eGRued"><strong>Chris Gunter: 4</strong></h3>
<p id="rtSiBV">A rough night for the Welshman who struggled all game against Leeds’ wingers - although the lack of a winger in front of him meant he didn’t have enough support. He also made some pretty petulant errors; going to ground too easily and handling the ball, committing a foul throw, and even punching the ball away from the box when it hadn’t quite gone out of play - luckily the ref didn’t see it. On the other side, he set Loader up for a good chance in the second half (of which Reading didn’t have many). </p>
<h3 id="hHbp8T"><strong>Liam Kelly: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="eknvHV">He used the ball pretty well, and was energetic and busy in the middle to stop Reading being overrun. Not a game for him to dictate the play, but he worked hard nonetheless. </p>
<h3 id="c66Fy3"><strong>Leandro Bacuna: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="RZ61FP">Restored the steel and bite to Reading’s midfield, winning and keeping the ball effectively throughout. Gave Reading presence in the middle of the park against superior opposition. </p>
<h3 id="6CifSe"><strong>Andy Rinomhota: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="wBLUjb">A top ‘Danny Williams-esque’ performance from the youngster who looked far more composed than his age would suggest. Helped out defensively and even pushed his team up the pitch with some driving runs that the American would be proud of. </p>
<div id="ZCAlGm">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shades of Danny Williams in Rinomhota's game tonight. Much more forward thinking and willing to run on the ball. Suits him and there's definitely a gap in the market for it.</p>— Marc Mayo (@ThatMarcMayo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThatMarcMayo/status/1067522250176376832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<h3 id="Ras7R4"><strong>John Swift: 4</strong></h3>
<p id="6bTJAw">He struggled to get into the game and was shrugged off the ball too often. Reading needed him to create, but he just wasn’t influential enough. </p>
<h3 id="h45hyR"><strong>Yakou Meite: 5</strong></h3>
<p id="BEXMdC">Worked hard as per and tried to hold the ball up, but found it tough due to a lack of service and physical dominance of Leeds’ defence. He should learn a lot from this game. </p>
<h3 id="M08P5g"><strong>Danny Loader: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="tuToiJ">Didn’t look at all out of place in his first league start. Got into good positions and had two of Reading's best chances in the game, not being far away on either occasion. Like with Meite, a start away to one of the better teams in the league will be great experience. </p>
<h2 id="WCUYbB"><strong>Subs</strong></h2>
<h3 id="cfDTQa"><strong>Garath McCleary: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="HdDe0z">A pretty quiet night for the Jamaican who replaced Swift in an attempt to add pace and push Reading up the pitch. </p>
<h3 id="Nu9pud"><strong>Josh Sims: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="H5MkPe">Like at Aston Villa, he won an unlikely penalty late on with a marauding run into the box. </p>
<h3 id="B19Jcu"><strong>Marc McNulty: 4</strong></h3>
<p id="GsMq60">Poor McNulty can't catch a break, can he? He was given the perfect opportunity to open his account for Reading with a late penalty, but was denied by a strong save from Bailey Peacock-Farrell in the Leeds goal. It wasn’t a particularly bad penalty, but he could have increased his odds by adding that bit more power and putting it that bit closer to the corner. Hopefully it won’t dent his confidence too much.</p>
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<h3 id="RVQXWi"><em><strong>Average: 5.78</strong></em></h3>
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https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/28/18114943/leeds-united-vs-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-lilywhitesBucksRoyal2018-11-27T22:09:50+00:002018-11-27T22:09:50+00:00Leeds United 1-0 Reading: Resilient Royals Edged Out At Elland Road
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<img alt="Leeds United v Bolton Wanderers - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LF0Dy_08jpg-tYdJgO7cnYUTT1U=/0x0:4921x3281/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62415205/513858238.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Daniel Smith/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A Stuart Dallas goal was enough to send Reading home empty-handed. </p> <p id="KUm4lv">Despite a commendable performance, Reading lost 1-0 at Elland Road to Leeds United on Tuesday evening. The Royals contained the home side for much of the game, but a second half close-range strike from Stuart Dallas was the difference. Marc McNulty had the chance to level the game up from the penalty spot late on, but his effort was saved by Bailey Peacock-Farrell.</p>
<p id="HrthGE"><em>It’s those damn fine margins again.</em></p>
<h3 id="RGThGf"><strong>How Reading lined up</strong></h3>
<p id="VWQsk8">Paul Clement made four changes to the side that drew 0-0 at Wigan Athletic on Saturday; the most eye-catching being a first league start for Danny Loader. The academy graduate partnered Yakou Meite up top in a 4-4-2 diamond. </p>
<p id="aSIMnV">Anssi Jaakkola was protected by a back four of Andy Yiadom, Tiago Ilori, Liam Moore and Chris Gunter, while the midfield was made up of Liam Kelly, Leandro Bacuna, Andy Rinomhota and John Swift.</p>
<h3 id="3rBYsT"><strong>First half</strong></h3>
<p id="SZrQEi">Leeds United made a strong start to the game, almost opening the scoring immediately through Dallas. Pablo Hernandez found acres of space inside the area, but Dallas’ header was off target. Marcelo Bielsa’s team continued to cause problems for Reading, dominating possession and looking particularly threatening from out wide, but couldn’t quite find the breakthrough.</p>
<p id="tEZPws">However, Reading would grow into the game as the half went on, looking increasingly confident in and out of possession. The decision to switch to a midfield diamond meant we had plenty of bodies in the middle, and the pacey strike partnership of Meite/Loader gave us an outlet to relieve the pressure. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sky pundits (including Dave Edwards) highlighting Reading's disciplined midfield in the first half. Bacuna, Kelly and Rinomhota all doing good defensive jobs.</p>— The Tilehurst End (@TheTilehurstEnd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheTilehurstEnd/status/1067518892505997312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<p id="G0midH">The Royals’ best chance of the opening 45 came through academy man Loader. The youngster elaborately worked in Yiadom down the right and got the ball back, but his powerful shot was blocked by Meite. From there on in we restricted Leeds pretty well, to the extent that Alioski was forced into an embarrassing dive just before half-time - which Mike Dean saw through. Booking given.</p>
<h3 id="uUIT8U"><strong>Second half</strong></h3>
<p id="6x06st">Bielsa made two switches at the break to liven the game up from Leeds’ perspective, which is probably what did for Reading. The hosts had looked increasingly short of ideas in the first half, but Saiz and Clarke brought those after the restart. Yiadom and Jaakkola were both called on to keep the scores level - the former with a vital block just after the break, the latter showing his agility to deny Roofe’s powerful header with a one-handed save.</p>
<p id="kP0OzY">Although the Royals continued to stand up pretty well defensively, they were on the back-foot more and more. A goal was coming, and Leeds got that through Dallas; Yiadom being doubled up on, United getting the cross in for the Northern Irishman to bundle the ball home. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">GOAL LEEDS<br><br>Roofe battles well in the box and his effort is pushed to Dallas who fires home. <br><br>Watch all six Championship games live on the Sky Sports Football red button or follow here: <a href="https://t.co/RGY4Q3s4cY">https://t.co/RGY4Q3s4cY</a> <a href="https://t.co/zC1draPoMV">pic.twitter.com/zC1draPoMV</a></p>— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyFootball/status/1067525048146239490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a>
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<p id="1ZaTNH">Down the other end, Reading were lacking presence in the final third. Hard-working Loader and Meite were tiring, having gone up against a defence more than capable of keeping the ball well, and neither were offering runs in-behind. Their best chance came through Loader who got onto the end of a cross whipped in by Gunter’s left boot, but his run was a <em>little</em> slow off the mark and his finish was easily saved by the ‘keeper. </p>
<p id="istnVH">Reading gradually pushed up the pitch, and made three attacking changes in an attempt to swing the match: Garath McCleary for Swift, Josh Sims for Meite, and Marc McNulty for Kelly. The last of those, McNulty, had a glorious opportunity to get the scores back to 1-1 late on, but Peacock-Farrell read his spot-kick, dived low to his right and denied the Scot. </p>
<h3 id="0oQRIv"><strong>Closing thoughts</strong></h3>
<p id="vLtWl0">In some ways, this match was similar to the West Brom game. Reading went into both fixtures with most fans expecting a walloping, but clever tactical changes from Paul Clement saw his side match superior opposition for the opening 45 minutes. However, where we collapsed at the Hawthorns, we very much didn’t at Elland Road. Leeds certainly offered a bigger threat after the restart, but Reading rode the storm well for the most part - bar the goal, obviously. </p>
<p id="chwAkK">Reading can take heart from the performance even if they didn’t get anything out of it. Credit should go in particular to Andy N’Golo Rinomhota for an energetic, composed performance in the middle, and Danny Loader for not looking at all out of sorts in a high-pressure first league appearances. </p>
<p id="ezQ2zj">We now go on to Stoke City at home this Saturday. Come on Urz!</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/27/18115095/leeds-united-1-0-reading-fc-resilient-royals-edged-out-at-elland-roadBucksRoyal