The Tilehurst End - Plymouth Argyle 2-4 Reading FC: Full CoverageReading FC blog run by fans, for fans.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52568/tte_fav.png2019-08-30T11:00:00+01:00http://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/rss/stream/206005092019-08-30T11:00:00+01:002019-08-30T11:00:00+01:00On The Road: Plymouth Argyle
<figure>
<img alt="Plymouth Argyle v Reading - Carabao Cup Second Round" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rKsWsxUfPwHqYgp7Ajo8JkE5SOA=/0x0:5365x3577/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65141377/1170549324.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A fan’s experience of Reading’s 4-2 cup win at Plymouth argyle in mid-week.</p> <p id="5MVZsL">This is what the Carabao Cup is all about. Running out on work at lunch to go to the seaside. Fish and chips on a Tuesday. Getting back home at 3am? Psshh, nothing a well-timed Carabao can’t fix.</p>
<p id="LqOMGG">It’s often a great day out in these away cup ties regardless of the score. You get the chance to visit a new ground, experience a new place and even see new players. Plymouth had all of this and more. Home Park was grander than some that League Two have to offer. The city itself was a mixed bag from my brief trip. </p>
<p id="S9lzzz">Seeing the Plymouth College of Art fronting onto a road filled with roadworks did feel a little symbolic. Then again, a power walk through central Reading on an overcast Tuesday evening probably doesn’t give off the best impression and we all still live here. Plymouth is definitely somewhere to visit on a southern weekend trip.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/llQ_0h1PGAZ1fcKOLsF1LF6T4Ic=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19137238/20190827_181320.jpg">
<cite>Calum Egan</cite>
<figcaption>Plymouth Argyle’s Home Park </figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="N9GOdk">Then you have starts for players like Akin Adimayo, Gabriel Osho, Teddy Howe and Michael Olise. They might not get into the first team proper, you might not see them play ever again - none of that means it’s not still fun to watch them play. There’s an endearing recklessness to most inexperienced footballers. </p>
<p id="mkhJH3">They have not fully transitioned into footballers yet; they are simply people on a football pitch. It’s almost like watching a baby takes their first steps. Every pass can be a struggle, every touch requires so much concentration. Sometimes the imperfections of a player can make them all the more likeable.</p>
<p id="TwKteV">At the heart of it all, you have Jordan Obita. I don’t imagine many of us will ever know what it feels to undergo such a lengthy rehabilitation process. Of course, there is the physical pain. What few might realise is the mental impact such an injury can have on a person. When your life for so many years is football-centric, an enforced two-year absence must take some toll on the psyche. </p>
<p id="LGTyeZ">I’m no expert so I would encourage you to read <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/20/sports/soccer/manchester-city-ilkay-gundogan-injury.html">this piece</a> about Man City’s Ilkay Gundogan and his personal struggles. Footballers are people and Jordan Obita is a pretty great guy. Talking of sound lads, Yakou Meite had some iconic celebrations, which you can read about <a href="https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/29/20837019/yakou-meite-joy-the-picture-that-says-a-thousand-words-reading-fc-royals?utm_campaign=thetilehurstend.sbnation&utm_content=chorus&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter">here</a>.</p>
<aside id="IuPOfi"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Yakou Meite’s Joy: The Picture That Says A Thousand Words","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/29/20837019/yakou-meite-joy-the-picture-that-says-a-thousand-words-reading-fc-royals"}]}'></div></aside><p id="aLRaH4">With the eccentric nature of the match, packed-out stadium and seaside setting, this match had a bit of the carnival about it. From talking to a couple of Argyle fans - thanks John and Peter - you can get a sense of the excitement for even a Championship cup draw. The allure of seeing “that new Inter Milan striker” raised their spirits. </p>
<p id="s6hKMF">Naturally, they were distraught that George Puscas hadn’t travelled - as were we all - but hopefully they were adequately sated by ex-PSG man Yakou Meite. Not that Plymouth lack things to be excited about: Ryan Lowe has them playing some slick football and they sit pretty in second place in League Two. </p>
<p id="9QWbNV">Gloriously, Home Park has perhaps the best lower-league ground quirk: the disappearing footballs. Often seen at grounds with low roofs (QPR) or with giant defenders (Ibrahima Sonko), the football sailing out of view is one of sport’s most underrated pleasures. Yet, Plymouth had a new spin on it. With their new grandstand under construction, all that stood between Charlie Adam and the death of a Mitre ball was a 10-foot wall. Needless to say, Plymouth were grateful for their industrial-size bag of balls.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zIYiEfemRttX-YdaUUXMnu16hZg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19137185/20190827_194605.jpg">
<cite>Calum Egan</cite>
<figcaption>The view from the away end at Home Park</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="PSEv88">Although I’m sure few travelling supporters would admit it, Kevin Johnson’s antics in the middle embellished the occasion. Reading were finally hit with the karma they deserved for The Ghost Goal all those years ago at Vicarage Road. Injustice is the root of so much drama, which is why VAR is such a blight to the character of football - would Hamlet be such a dramatic play if the Danish government used VAR to find out Hamlet’s uncle had killed his father? </p>
<p id="IjuiuS">The joy of football doesn’t lie in the science of the game, it lies in the theatre. Obviously, I’d be calling for the referee’s head if Reading had been knocked out of the cup, but the Berkshire Beckham was on hand to make sure that never happened. If the match were a Shakespearean play, thankfully it was more comedy than tragedy.</p>
<p id="B5AQ0z">It wasn’t only the referees who made some bizarre decisions. The Pilgrims seemed to have a club-wide time-wasting policy. Not only was that pesky construction site disrupting the game, but the ball boys often delayed their ball retrieval. One of them, who looked suspiciously old and spotty, was determined to incessantly hold on to the ball for an extra, awkward few seconds. For his sake, he should be grateful that Teddy Howe has a better temperament than famed ball-boy-basher Eden Hazard. Even Ryan Lowe was guilty of running the clock down.</p>
<p id="qrOIgi">The last time Reading scored four goals in an away match, P Clement was just a Dutch winger, Sone Aluko scored a goal and Roy Beerens was a striker. To score four at Plymouth, with the team Jose Gomes set out, is a testament to the belief at the club right now. Lower-league ties can be a poisoned chalice for managers - we all remember Stevenage - so Tuesday’s win should not be taken for granted.</p>
<p id="gukGgb"><strong>Food:</strong> 7/10. Fish and chips is pretty hard to get wrong.</p>
<p id="qHfKUf"><strong>Away day:</strong> 8/10. Less tension than Huddersfield, but a six-goal thriller in Devon will do it for me most weeks. </p>
<p id="tR9DaY"><strong>Conclusion:</strong> Go to all the lower-league away grounds you can, because it’s fun to escape from the life and death reality of Championship football.</p>
<aside id="dEjiPa"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Plymouth Argyle 2-4 Reading: Match Report","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/28/20836454/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-match-report-royals-carabao-cup"},{"title":"Plymouth 2-4 Reading: Player Ratings","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/28/20836444/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-carabao-cup"}]}'></div></aside>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/30/20839622/on-the-road-plymouth-argyle-reading-fcThe Tilehurst End Guest Writer2019-08-29T12:49:41+01:002019-08-29T12:49:41+01:00Yakou Meite’s Joy: The Picture That Says A Thousand Words
<figure>
<img alt="Plymouth Argyle v Reading - Carabao Cup Second Round" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Rq4c80rtoGFxefuliCGlieEqxrY=/0x0:5242x3495/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65132880/1170576324.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It’s been a tough time for the Ivorian, but he bounced back in perfect fashion on Tuesday night. </p> <p id="0wEbqV">They say a picture tells a thousand words and, looking at the photo at the top of this article, it’s hard not to believe them.</p>
<p id="RDGt0q">On the face of it, that shot is just a wonderful piece of photography from Getty Images’ Harry Trump, who was handily stood in the perfect position to capture the immediate aftermath of Yakou Meite’s fourth goal at Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday night. But, as with the most exquisite art, the meaning behind what’s going on in that photo gives it a far greater significance. </p>
<p id="jFYLs7">It’s an image that represents defiance as much as joy; dogged resilience in reaction to vile bigotry. You’ll know the racist incident to which I’m referring - the use of a word that, understandably, deeply upset Meite when it was sent to his personal Instagram account after he missed a penalty against Cardiff City. </p>
<p id="YRHXPF">To his credit, Meite made the brave decision after that game to speak out, to not be intimidated into silence by one lowlife on social media. As he <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49481148">told BBC Berkshire</a>, he got an outpouring of sympathy from fans across the game when he went public with what had happened.</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="99PqrF">“This abuse came from one person. If I’d chosen to delete my Twitter and Instagram accounts after receiving it, I wouldn’t have seen the hundreds of messages of support I’ve had from fans. </p>
<p id="N4aYry">“That’s not just Reading fans, but from hundreds of other clubs too. This is an issue that concerns everyone, not just black players, as this type of abuse is everywhere.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="sVW6Bh">With Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham and Manchester United’s Paul Pogba receiving similar messages recently, it’s felt like the fight to stamp racism out of the game has only got even harder than it already was - not least given Twitter’s tepid response. </p>
<p id="Jlunuq">The social media outlet - a platform for so much bigotry - was panned for announcing that it would <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/manchester-united-paul-pogba-twitter-racist-abuse-tammy-abraham-chelsea-a9074351.html">actively monitor the accounts of 50 leading footballers</a>. How far does that go towards expunging the scourge of racism? That list of 50 would surely include Pogba and perhaps Abraham, but what about Meite? </p>
<p id="SWqJ82">Given what he’d gone through, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Meite would be low on confidence for his return to first-team action after a brief injury - a start at Plymouth Argyle in Tuesday night’s League Cup clash. And yet, in that relentlessly positive style that’s so typical of his character, Meite took that story of hatred and flipped it on its head. </p>
<p id="IV4Z5a">With the scores level at 2-2, the Royals having twice got back on terms after going behind, Meite effectively won the game. On 87 minutes, he won and converted a penalty, before slotting home in the 91st minute to finish off a counter and secure Reading’s place in the third round of the League Cup. The fact that those two goals came in front of a loving away end only added to the occasion. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Plymouth Argyle v Reading - Carabao Cup Second Round" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/DpQDmxhOUadv5-ilMQJ63M2e3H0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19125104/1170576324.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="zH0hS0">What you see there is not just a goal celebration - it means so much more. </p>
<p id="tz7WwT">Arms spread out in defiance, Meite could almost be channelling Maximus Decimus Meridius’ <em>are you not entertained?</em> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbBiXPVKuTA">monologue from <em>Gladiator</em></a>. But where the movie leans into frustration and rage - which would be understandable emotions given the aftermath of the last time he took to the pitch - Meite unleashes his joy. </p>
<p id="JyyOSa">I just love that great big smile. Joy is infectious, isn’t it?</p>
<p id="c3mxl1">And at a time when it feels frustratingly hard to eradicate the scourges of racism and bigotry, whether from football or society as a whole, joy is the antidote. It’s the belief that, whatever hatred is put out - whether on Twitter, Instagram or anywhere else - relentless positivity will always win.</p>
<p id="AiKTDP">Yakou Meite encapsulates that. What better response to the lowlife that sent him that message - or anyone else who might - than to score two goals, win a game and put Reading through to the next round of the cup, beaming with joy all the while?</p>
<p id="zeJ1HT">Of course, there’s one final element to that photo that isn’t in the frame: the 800 or so travelling fans. It’s their love that’s being lapped up by Meite at that moment, their support that visibly means so much to him. He spoke of the outpouring of support over social media when he went public with that message, but that outpouring of support was there for him at Home Park too.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/29/20837019/yakou-meite-joy-the-picture-that-says-a-thousand-words-reading-fc-royalsBucksRoyal2019-08-29T08:45:00+01:002019-08-29T08:45:00+01:00Plymouth Fans Verdict: Young Royals Put Four Past The Pilgrims
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Pszdxe1wRXSyi4D6QR-hlLVHjHQ=/128x0:896x512/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65132338/Fans_Verdict.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>Braces from Josh Barrett and Yakou Meite put Reading into the third round of the cup, and gave the fans plenty to be cheerful about. </p> <p id="CjSQQP">We knew that Jose Gomes was probably going to bring in some fresh legs for the trip down to Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday night to rest some of the key players before the league game against Charlton Athletic on Saturday.</p>
<p id="d6cOZH">However, not many would’ve expected him to make 11 changes and field eight academy products - including a debut for Akin Odimayo, the 53rd academy player to make the step up to the first team - and an appearance for Jordan Obita!</p>
<p id="gqRLLg">After going behind twice, the youngsters showed a huge amount of grit and determination to come back and win the tie 4-2 - continuing the positive momentum that the squad carried into the game from the recent league form.</p>
<aside id="LWKCnZ"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Plymouth Argyle 2-4 Reading FC: Match Report","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/28/20836454/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-match-report-royals-carabao-cup"},{"title":"Plymouth 2-4 Reading: Player Ratings","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/28/20836444/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-carabao-cup"}]}'></div></aside><p id="moh1DK">The result and performance is a huge testament to the strength of our academy and the squad depth we now have, which is a vital for any team if they’re are to have a successful season. Gomes learned on Tuesday that he now has a big number of players he can rely on - which must be a good feeling.</p>
<p id="WTRX1s">Here’s how the fans reacted to some of the key talking points...</p>
<h2 id="QgDndN"><strong>Obita’s return</strong></h2>
<p id="OXLknH">After nearly two years out, Jordan Obita made his long-awaited return on Tuesday night as he played the full 90 minutes, and was also given the armband from Gomes. The Loyal Royals have been waiting for this moment for a very, very long time. The academy graduate was a key player for us before his horrific knee injury against Hull City back in September 2017 - but now he’s back, and it’s a wonderful sight.</p>
<p id="nRl7RI">The fans were absolutely over the moon to see Obita back in the first team, and are eager to see what he can do in the coming weeks and months. However, he won’t have it easy as Omar Richards has made an impressive start to the season at left wing back.</p>
<p id="5SbFFr">The fans took to Twitter to show their joy at seeing Jordan back in the starting eleven, a feeling of joy that i’m sure was shared amongst the vast majority of the fanbase...</p>
<div id="cFYN3k">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Captain Obita </p>— Josh (@rfcjoshe) <a href="https://twitter.com/rfcjoshe/status/1166406495065575424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="JydCiW">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="pt" dir="ltr">OBITAAA <a href="https://t.co/wngKsutUxD">pic.twitter.com/wngKsutUxD</a></p>— ᴀ (@archrfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/archrfc/status/1166406463776075776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="FWqZuA">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="pt" dir="ltr">Obita? <a href="https://t.co/YqjUDVOBpB">pic.twitter.com/YqjUDVOBpB</a></p>— George Blair (@GeorgeBlairr) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeBlairr/status/1166406378644267009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="qKtLNV">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Massive changes, good to see kids playing. Obita back and captain Come on URZZ! ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/PBIuuT8jAW">https://t.co/PBIuuT8jAW</a></p>— Joshua Lamb (@lambeyyy1871) <a href="https://twitter.com/lambeyyy1871/status/1166407170407227393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="a4nnCX">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Brilliant to see Jordan Obita return to action and given the captaincy for tonight. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/kgcj9qSLH6">https://t.co/kgcj9qSLH6</a></p>— Andy Preston (@AndyPreston96) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndyPreston96/status/1166408266454319104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="g0hXen">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jordan Obita in the starting lineup tonight for the first time in nearly two years <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Rob Knight (@robknight95) <a href="https://twitter.com/robknight95/status/1166409866962972672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="QEbIBu">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">After 2 years out, it's absolutely fantastic to see Obita back. Must have been such a tough few years for him, let's all give him the welcome back he deserves. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Harrison Mitchell (@harrison1871rfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/harrison1871rfc/status/1166411918275436544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h2 id="cXw3dF"><strong>Josh Barrett’s goals</strong></h2>
<p id="GA3VLp">Barrett had a solid pre-season, and has been an unfortunate victim of the late flurry of transfer activity in the summer. But on Tuesday night he got another chance to prove his worth - and boy did he take it.</p>
<p id="9qZJki">Two fantastic goals, the second being particularly impressive, would have surely impressed Gomes and yet again proved that he can be relied on by the manager. The first was a fantastic solo goal, charging into the area before powerfully finding the bottom corner. The second was just wonderful. A world-class finish from the edge of the area, a goal that the fans seriously enjoyed.</p>
<p id="wKKV4N">It’s obvious to see that Barrett has an eye for the spectacular - with his preseason goal against Chelsea, and now the brace against Plymouth. And if there’s one thing that the fans love, it’s a player that can get you off your feet...</p>
<div id="zoPozO">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="es" dir="ltr">VIVA JOSH BARRETT <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Adam (@Adamhumphries44) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adamhumphries44/status/1166432147416203266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="3POb4R">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Barrett doesn't do tap ins.....<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Rich (@Besty240) <a href="https://twitter.com/Besty240/status/1166444790000627713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="fDH4Zg">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Josh Barrett, some player ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Taylor Cornish (@T_Cornish) <a href="https://twitter.com/T_Cornish/status/1166453310443970561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="18XeAR">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">You tell Barrett is desperate to make his mark in the first team, looked sharp today and 2 excellent goals <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Luke (@lukewescott_) <a href="https://twitter.com/lukewescott_/status/1166458104155910146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="PTZzdN">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">What a cracking goal by josh Barrett last night <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Ian Kirkpatrick (@IanKirk27722033) <a href="https://twitter.com/IanKirk27722033/status/1166683553708617728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="MuDznV">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Games like this are great for players like Josh Barrett, really decent goal that. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Nath St Paul (@NathStPaul) <a href="https://twitter.com/NathStPaul/status/1166430355005607939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="0sVC9H">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gomes must have a headache about getting Barrett into that side on Saturday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Louis Stagg (@dinglouis_) <a href="https://twitter.com/dinglouis_/status/1166445176077922306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="6fLoF7">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Filthy finish from Barrett <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Swft (@Swiftinho1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Swiftinho1/status/1166455271784439808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h2 id="N07Bjh"><strong>Yakou Meite</strong></h2>
<p id="zp0fHL">It’s fair to say that the former PSG man has had a rough couple of weeks. Firstly, the penalty miss against Cardiff City which then lead to some inexcusable racist abuse and then he suffered an injury which has forced him out of the last two league games.</p>
<p id="DIgLsc">But Meite reacted on Tuesday night with a typical powerful performance, for which he was deservedly rewarded with two late goals. You can see just how much that penalty meant to him from his celebrations; redemption is sweet and he must’ve felt on top of the world when it nestled in the back of the net.</p>
<p id="GynOgh">Meite’s footballing ability certainly splits opinion, but he will never give less than his maximum and will leave everything out on the pitch. Because of that, the fans love him - and they showed that love yet again. Firstly with the celebrations of his goals, and then on Twitter after the game...</p>
<div id="5CofJP">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Huge respect for him stepping up and scoring after missing against Cardiff. Buzzing for him</p>— Harrison Mitchell (@harrison1871rfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/harrison1871rfc/status/1166449388962664452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="9tLVW8">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">WE’VE GOT MEITE <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— LoneH65338 (@H6533B) <a href="https://twitter.com/H6533B/status/1166449408361320454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="mBkLIA">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Seeing Yakou Meite celebrate in the crowd after scoring his penalty is quite possibly one of my favourite things ever..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Ben Honeywill (@HONEYWILL11RFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/HONEYWILL11RFC/status/1166459203181060096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="DkdVE9">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We’ve got Meite, <a href="https://twitter.com/Yaks75?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Yaks75</a> Meite, I just don’t think you understand ⚽️ ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/URZ?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#URZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/rA5txxU9nI">pic.twitter.com/rA5txxU9nI</a></p>— Oliver O'Rawe (@DoubleORoar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DoubleORoar/status/1166465017300049928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="Oo3pa4">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We’ve got Meite... <br><br>What a response after getting racially abused in his last game.<br><br>What a man. <a href="https://twitter.com/Yaks75?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Yaks75</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kickitout?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kickitout</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Stanley Staines (@Stainsey95) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stainsey95/status/1166450361500131328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="jXyUDD">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yakou Meite winning and scoring a penalty - weeks after being racially abused for missing one - is such a fine example of football’s love affair with narrative. <br><br>...Two goals from an academy baller and another one for Yaks is just showing off. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/kYOFZSGMRH">https://t.co/kYOFZSGMRH</a></p>— Greg Double (@Dubstep1988) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dubstep1988/status/1166450828955258881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="OTEAVp">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Meite and the rest of the team jumping straight into the crowd is the exact reason you travel 4 hours to Plymouth on a Tuesday night <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Micah (@micahrfc19) <a href="https://twitter.com/micahrfc19/status/1166451563369574400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h2 id="UoaY7G"><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p id="WYbW4B">Another great result for the Royals, and a result which keeps the winning feeling around the club and around the squad - which is priceless.</p>
<p id="sWM1xQ">Unbeaten Charlton come to town on Saturday, so make sure you’re down at the Mad Stad to get right behind the lads - and hopefully take this unbeaten run into the international break.</p>
<p id="ZFcvMZ">URZZZ</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/29/20837048/plymouth-fans-verdict-young-royals-put-four-past-the-pilgrims-reading-fc-royalsharry.chafer2019-08-29T07:30:00+01:002019-08-29T07:30:00+01:00Plymouth 2-4 Reading: The Alternative View
<figure>
<img alt="Plymouth Argyle v Reading - Carabao Cup Second Round" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WZJXoqUQRElPoTIWeaZq05u-ToU=/0x39:5375x3622/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65132216/1170575980.jpg.5.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Gotta love a good cup run!</p> <p id="5uYJtj">The Royals’ League Cup trail continued with a trip to Home Park in Plymouth. With a hefty fixture schedule of four games in nine days, Jose Gomes played safe and rested the first team, giving the opportunity for the academy and fringe players to get some valuable game time.</p>
<p id="3iCJrf">In reality this was a massive potential for a banana skin. However, buoyed on by a travelling army of 800 fans from the Royal County, Reading eventually saw the game out with Josh Barrett producing a couple of decent finishes and Yakou Meite getting in on the act with a well-taken penalty and breakaway goal which was firmly finished.</p>
<p id="cxH9Lm">The subplot to this happened after the game with the terrible news of Bury’s exit from the Football League, a fate that Plymouth Argyle nearly were exposed to eight years ago. Given the amount of ex-Bury players and management at the League Two club, there was an understandable reaction post-match.</p>
<p id="o596zk">On the game itself and Plymouth certainly gave us a contest, and both sets of fans took a lot of positives away from it regardless of the result.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="eONJIF">
<h2 id="qOxsll"><strong>Social</strong></h2>
<h3 id="OvZpOr"><strong>Wise words</strong></h3>
<div id="s0fjw6">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Listening to <a href="https://twitter.com/rlowe15?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rlowe15</a> on talk sport talking about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/buryfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#buryfc</a> such a genuine bloke and we are very lucky to have him at the helm. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pafc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pafc</a></p>— Craig johnson (@Pilgrimcraig82) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pilgrimcraig82/status/1166655588799000576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="mAKcmX"><strong>A thought echoed by everyone in football</strong></h3>
<div id="yPXeRv">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just watched <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pafc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pafc</a> take the game to reading and give them a run for their money. Puts it all into perspective however as I'm looking forward to Northampton away Bury are out of the EFL. This should never have happened and the fans deserve better.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/buryfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#buryfc</a> come back stronger </p>— Steve Badham (@sjbadham17) <a href="https://twitter.com/sjbadham17/status/1166476866217218049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="1hzC4l"><strong>Think this might be stretching it slightly</strong></h3>
<div id="XLKVKe">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Reminder that Scott Wootton, Nial Canavan and Tafari Moore made Championship Reading look like a non-league side tonight. <br>We'd also be in the 3rd round if Grant hadn't got injured.<br>Positive performance tonight, no shame in that defeat whatsoever <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pafc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pafc</a></p>— Ollie Pope (@Ollieargyle9) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ollieargyle9/status/1166491436369530880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="W3gIGZ"><em><strong>“Theatre of Greens!”</strong></em></h3>
<div id="CPLY8L">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">What a game at the theatre of greens tonight. Ryans at the wheel steering the good ship Mayflower onto pastures new. Green army. Baxter oozes class. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pafc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pafc</a></p>— Pete shilson (@shilson_0) <a href="https://twitter.com/shilson_0/status/1166463638854623233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="c4RyHj"><strong>He is!</strong></h3>
<div id="OKQj4g">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/ReadingFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ReadingFC</a> That <a href="https://twitter.com/10Joshbarrett?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@10Joshbarrett</a> looks a player. Great match tonight. What a cup tie! Good luck to the Royals in the next round and well done <a href="https://twitter.com/Only1Argyle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Only1Argyle</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/rlowe15?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rlowe15</a> for representing the best of <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyBetLeagueTwo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyBetLeagueTwo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pafc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pafc</a> <a href="https://t.co/scLOIrz9JI">pic.twitter.com/scLOIrz9JI</a></p>— David Stephens (@The_Boldman) <a href="https://twitter.com/The_Boldman/status/1166457147997208578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="ORx4qF"><strong>Well... can’t help it!</strong></h3>
<div id="ugozIn">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Would it have really been that difficult for you to have not turned into 2008 Barcelona with 20 minutes to go?</p>— Ryan Ferguson (@PAFC_Ryan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PAFC_Ryan/status/1166451461708025857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="kXtzuF"><strong>No s***!</strong></h3>
<div id="PSqgG0">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Should have definitely been a goal kick to Reading. ♂️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pafc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pafc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/F2oHD5XoX6">pic.twitter.com/F2oHD5XoX6</a></p>— Jak Ball (@Jakfirst) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jakfirst/status/1166439349283622918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="dIC5mm"><strong>Only one Charlie Adam!</strong></h3>
<div id="YTAnvq">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Charlie Adam tries to stop a throw in. Already booked. Ref has a word. He then clatters Taylor in a carbon copy of Sarcevic in Saturday. Should be off. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pafc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pafc</a></p>— Roger Willis (@rogerhwillis) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerhwillis/status/1166431610721452032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="YD5x3m"><strong>This just needs banning</strong></h3>
<div id="iI4L4Z">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Taylor’s on fire your defence is terrified</p>— Dave PAFC Payne (@DavePafcPayne) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavePafcPayne/status/1166429020822659072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h3 id="OTJN6f"><strong>You just have to admire this season’s away support</strong></h3>
<div id="Re1MzJ">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great support from Reading fans for a Tuesday night game against a team two leagues below them. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/royals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#royals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pafc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pafc</a> <a href="https://t.co/Iuij7oYOZN">pic.twitter.com/Iuij7oYOZN</a></p>— Jak Ball (@Jakfirst) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jakfirst/status/1166421182150823936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="ZF8Rir">
<h2 id="cqeBzI"><strong>Media</strong></h2>
<p id="94uZ8R">In reality it’s hard to expect too much in the way of media interest given the events happening with Bury and some interesting cup exits elsewhere. However, <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7400719/Carabao-Cup-second-round-round-Reading-win-thriller-Plymouth.html">The Daily Mail</a> give us two lines and an decent picture of Yakou Meite who looks delighted with his goal!</p>
<p id="BcQkfq">There is 2.09 minutes of coverage from <a href="https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/11795795/plymouth-2-4-reading">Sky</a> on the game; it’s worth watching to see Barrett’s goal. They don’t actually have a match report which is slightly disappointing. The <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49402995">BBC</a> as always have a report and the stats, saying Barrett was impressive and that Plymouth will “rue” a missed chance to take a 3-1 lead... and then we won.</p>
<p id="YPyCzy"><a href="https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/much-admire-ryan-lowes-plymouth-3256811">The Plymouth Herald</a> is naturally over the moon with this result, saying “they had much to admire” about the display from the Pilgrims, which to be fair is probably right.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="TCjQqs">
<h2 id="9538o4"><strong>Closing thoughts</strong></h2>
<p id="8QsM9P">Jose got this game right. The first team have had a fair few games in the last couple of weeks, and the league has to take priority. It was good to see some of the young guns get a run out and although by all reports it wasn’t a dominant display, a few are showing that they are capable and willing. Whether they have the guile and quality for a Championship season is a different question, but players such as Barrett are certainly pushing for a start. </p>
<p id="Jid4NR">Our academy is perplexing; this class look a decent one and some of the kids we have coming through the ranks certainly are showing signs of being good players. We have had many false dawns with players that we thought that would be excellent, but then seen them move on and become journeyman players. As important as it is for us to have faith in them, it’s also important that they have trust in the club and not expect too much too soon.</p>
<p id="lRWfx1">We move back to league action at the weekend with a tricky game against Charlton Athletic, who have had an impressive start to the season. This game is a huge test of our mettle and hopefully our run can continue!</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/29/20837422/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-the-alternative-view-royals-pilgrimsdavemc_exile2019-08-28T14:05:00+01:002019-08-28T14:05:00+01:00Gomes Picks Out Returning Obita In Cup Win
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/lm8euZkw4gT4TDiFhKClOcss9vk=/0x0:920x613/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65125208/Gomes.0.jpg" />
</figure>
<p>There were plenty of positives for the manager to take from Reading’s late victory against Plymouth. </p> <p id="vW5tha">Carabao Cup duty returned for the Royals last night with a trip to Plymouth Argyle in the second round, and they didn’t make it easy!</p>
<p id="uOo38G">After going behind twice, the Royals eventually ended up winning 4-2, with goals from Josh Barrett and Yakou Meite. The highlight of the evening by far was the return to first team football for Jordan Obita, and hopefully we will see him back in the league very soon.</p>
<p id="UvYQDs">Jose Gomes admitted it was a tough game, as he spoke to both the <a href="http://www.readingfc.co.uk">official club website</a> and <a href="https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/reading-fc-boss-jose-gomes-16825112">GetReading</a>.</p>
<h3 id="be1Aq6"><strong>Gomes on the game</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="B0VnQQ">“It was a tough game, These games are not easy, but we passed this cup test. My players were serious, professional, and they followed the advice and they fought until the end.</p>
<p id="SGjl6S">“We made some mistakes, yes. But it is not easy to change 11 players from one game to another. We took this risk.</p>
<p id="KNlrtq">“And our fans again, fantastic. It was important for us.</p>
<p id="URezmi">“A different formation, different players, but we never gave up. We always believed that it was possible to turn the game. We were losing, but at 2-1 down we did really well. I am happy for them.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="aXoZVJ"><strong>Gomes on Josh Barrett’s first senior goals</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="rfJXEy">“Josh played well and scored two fantastic goals at important moments,</p>
<p id="rpCIYV">“He is the kind of player who can show different things when you don’t expect it. He is a talented player.</p>
<p id="gY7yrx">“It was a good result and the team played well. These players did a great job. I am happy with all of them. We showed that we are able to go on growing and to be stronger tactically, because it was a tactical game today.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="0W9LVr"><strong>Gomes on players that stood out</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="6xrEh2">“We can talk about Barrett and Meite but my special words are for Obita because of his situation of not playing for two years for the first team, and the centre-backs Osho and Odimayo who I knew from the beginning would do well.</p>
<p id="YIBIV2">“I told them they would be one v one all the time but they didn’t lose any challenges. It was amazing and I am very happy with them.</p>
<p id="K3RKeD">“We started with five or six players from the U23s and this is very good for the club. And it’s important for my team because we are in a good moment and the players who are playing regularly cannot be comfortable in their position because if they relax there are players who can take their place.</p>
<p id="tHg6o9">“This is the best thing that can happen to a manager - this kind of competition.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="zGuPi3"><strong>Gomes on making 11 changes</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="AYL00l">“Everybody felt tired after the Huddersfield game. We didn’t respect the Carabao Cup so we picked the players who were in the best moment for the game.</p>
<p id="AgpH2M">“They showed they were ready to take the challenge. We must use this week to let the others rest to prepare for the game on Saturday.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="Zmxs6d"><strong>Gomes on that winning environment</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="AnHPf9">“We can only get good results when you go into each game preparing to give your maximum. If you relax one bit you can easily be dead for your opponent.”</p></blockquote>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/28/20836415/jose-gomes-picks-out-returning-jordan-obita-in-carabao-cup-win-reading-fcsophierfc102019-08-28T12:30:00+01:002019-08-28T12:30:00+01:00Plymouth Argyle 2-4 Reading: Match Report
<figure>
<img alt="Plymouth Argyle v Reading - Carabao Cup Second Round" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/z_PHFqnu58fEDj__WD8iEBvQy_Y=/0x0:5428x3619/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65124752/1170575911.jpg.5.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Quite the enjoyable evening in South Devon. </p> <p id="PCK35I">Expectations were low at kick-off for Reading’s visit to Home Park. Jose Gomes rang the changes, with Lucas Boye and Michael Morrison being the only starters from Saturday’s game against Huddersfield to retain their place in the squad. More important than anything else was the return of Jordan Obita, who captained the side. It’s been said a lot but I will say it again: what incredible spirit he has shown to fight over two years to recover from such a horrific injury. It is just fantastic to see our left-back playing football again. Never has a 7/10 performance been enjoyed by so many. <em>[Assistant editor’s note: Our </em><a href="https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/28/20836444/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-carabao-cup"><em>player rater gave Obita a 6</em></a><em>, but you get the point.]</em></p>
<p id="Pm9PDU">So, Plymouth against Reading. Second in League Two against 11th in the Championship. Plymouth started brightly, showing the confidence a strong league start gives you, no matter the division. Danny Mayor caused issues down his inside left channel, feeding Callum McFadzean on the overlap. Gomes’s new look back line just about held firm under siege. Sam Walker tipped over an early header, before Jose Baxter scuffed a volley into the turf and another McFadzean cutback was turned narrowly wide. Ryan Taylor’s goal after twenty minutes was inevitable. A cross lead to a goalmouth scramble and the affectionately-titled ‘Ginger Zlatan’ prodded home.</p>
<p id="5m8L3q">Now onto the elephant in the room. In fact, you could grab that elephant and still fit him in the space between the ball and the goal line. The ball was that far off the pitch. I’ll be sat watching The Carabao Cup’s Greatest Moments in front of the fire at the ripe age of 89 and still be incredulous that neither the referee nor the linesman called for a goal kick. Nevertheless, Plymouth had threatened down their left-hand side repeatedly in the opening stages. You could see it coming.</p>
<p id="tInT8P">Reading weren’t playing well. It was a display to be expected of a team containing the fifth and sixth choice centre-backs, a left-back without a game for two years, three teenagers and Charlie Adam. Possession rarely progressed into the final third in a first half that featured long ball after long ball. Meite did his best but lacked a strike partner to feed off his knockdowns.</p>
<p id="N1KfvX">In a line-up featuring many of the next batch of youngsters, it would be easy to consign Josh Barrett to a place amongst these reserves. He emphatically proved otherwise. His volleyed attempt from 30 yards was ambitious, but a sign of his confidence. Picking up Adam’s pass, he drove at pace into the box and finished into the bottom corner with aplomb. Barrett’s pressing was relentless all game and again he went close with a curler from range. Having lost his place due to a change in formation, he was determined to prove his worth to Jose Gomes.</p>
<p id="klB30P">The Royals started the second half brightly: Teddy Howe looked lively on the right, Barrett skewed wide and Michael Olise began to run the show. Unfortunately, Olise was at the heart of the game after an hour, for all the wrong reasons. He was dispossessed in attack, allowing Plymouth to regain the lead through Jose Baxter. Baxter certainly did the Jose name proud with an acute daisy cutter from range into the bottom left corner. Again, some questions were directed at the man in the middle. The ‘tackle’ on Olise could be kindly described as agricultural. It could also be described as grade one assault. Yet, Reading should only look at themselves for the nature of the goal – give a free strike to an attacker at any level and you take a risk. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Plymouth Argyle v Reading - Carabao Cup Second Round" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4wyr-bafemJUkzZhTnm5JeZP_N0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19125164/1170568258.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Ryan Taylor celebrates his goal. </figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="UHZqTc">Reading looked to respond instantly – Adam’s deep corner was bundled wide by Meite, Loader forced a save after a mazy run and Adam’s drive deflected kindly for Plymouth goalkeeper Michael Cooper. Yet, too many attacks broke down on the edge of the box. The creativity of dainty duo Swift and Ejaria was sorely missed.</p>
<p id="1zhPfZ">It took a tactical switch from Jose Gomes to open up the Argyle rear-guard. The rarely seen 4-1-2-3 formation featured no less than four recognised strikers. Baldock and Boye had replaced Olise and Adam to add some dynamism to a tiring match. Loader could drive from deep and put in a surprisingly resolute defensive display in front of Rinomhota. This allowed Reading to break with numbers for the final 20 minutes. Boye especially made an impact, spreading the ball to Barrett for the equaliser.</p>
<p id="YF9wQS">Without wanting to put overdue pressure on Josh Barrett, he only scores stunning goals. If his chip versus Chelsea and first half drive weren’t quite special enough, his 72nd minute dipping effort surely was. Gloriously, it not only left the keeper rooted to the spot, but also left the covering defender utterly helpless. A spectacular goal for someone who deserves his chance.</p>
<p id="tmnsvG">The Royals sensed the vulnerabilities and piled on the pressure. Obita drew a dive from Cooper, who then showed great reactions to deny Baldock a tap in. Like all great strikers, Meite had kept making his runs. With four minutes to go, he poked Boye’s through ball past the keeper and fell under the challenge. Alike his probable idol, Mike Dean, the referee milked the moment before eventually pointing to the spot. Foolishly, the Plymouth defenders remonstrated with the near linesman. As we established earlier, that man is as blind as a bat. Meite was not to be denied the opportunity to redeem his miss against Cardiff. He slotted past the goalkeeper and celebrated in style with the delighted travelling supporters.</p>
<p id="rXQB4p">With Argyle pouring men forward, a Reading counter was on. Lucas Boye again was the orchestrator, driving from his own half before finding Baldock who in turn found Meite. His finish squirmed under the home keeper and cemented the Royals’ place in the hat for the third round. It’s great to see the fan-favourite back amongst the goals after the abuse he suffered last week.</p>
<p id="xE9pGU">Overall, a fairly bonkers game at Home Park. An apt showcase for the glory of the Carabao Cup. Jordan Obita is back playing football. Reading are winning back to back away games. The Portuguese revolution is in full flow. </p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/28/20836454/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-match-report-royals-carabao-cupThe Tilehurst End Guest Writer2019-08-28T11:21:54+01:002019-08-28T11:21:54+01:00Plymouth 2-4 Reading: Player Ratings
<figure>
<img alt="Plymouth Argyle v Reading - Carabao Cup Second Round" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qOvIN1oDabJAEWvrYitpZ7eXdaU=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65124541/1170572664.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Plenty of academy stars were on show at Home Park last night. </p> <h2 id="JCbYXu"><strong>Sam Walker: 6</strong></h2>
<p id="ztfaop">Surprisingly in a 2-4 result, he didn’t have lot to do on the night, but took his crosses well and had a lot more command over his defence than we’ve seen previously from him. Little he could do with the two goals from a personal opinion, but overall a lot better than we’ve seen. A good job. </p>
<h2 id="4q5aNZ"><strong>Teddy Howe: 5</strong></h2>
<p id="FQ3HEy">Fairly solid. Can’t necessarily be blamed for the first goal but both goals did come from our right hand side which does point the finger at the right-back. Didn’t offer too much going forward either. </p>
<h2 id="fFXB7G"><strong>Akin Odimayo: 5</strong></h2>
<p id="qM7YP8">First appearance so his rating should be taken with a pinch of salt...BUT: Misplaced a lot of passes and didn’t instil a lot of confidence in those around him. Didn’t seem to have any control over the Plymouth forwards. Grew more confident in the second half though, and improved vastly. Perhaps didn’t know he was playing tonight until Miazga’s injury on Saturday? </p>
<h2 id="br6hlp"><strong>Gabriel Osho: 6</strong></h2>
<p id="qoEXsG">More assured than Odimayo, but also part of what seemed a very nervy back pairing. Did seem to know his role in the back four a lot more though. </p>
<h2 id="eZeBD2"><strong>Jordan Obita: 6 </strong></h2>
<p id="EMW1EZ">Solid. Shouldn’t expect too much too quickly from Jordan. Solid defensively, and showed a little bit of something going forward, whilst nothing spectacular. Far from his best, but again, as expected. Hopefully, he’ll get back to his best in the coming weeks. </p>
<h2 id="XNEsk2"><strong>Charlie Adam: 6</strong></h2>
<p id="elp996">Didn’t do a lot to quash the rumour of his poor movement, but produced a couple of gorgeous balls including a stupendous first time ball to assist Barrett’s first equaliser. He is clearly one to watch on the ball, and not off it! </p>
<h2 id="Ypyh18"><strong>Andy Rinomhota: 5</strong></h2>
<p id="OURAif">Disappointing from the lofty standards he’s shown us. Was largely absent from the game. Very little contribution at all if I’m being honest. A couple of his normal runs but nothing to write home about (except I am....). </p>
<h2 id="XRLI7x"><strong>Josh Barrett: 8</strong></h2>
<p id="y5Lfbh">By far the classiest player on the pitch in terms of technical ability, and he was determined to show it off. An excellent first equaliser only showed up by the absolute worldy he pulled out of the top draw for the second. Dragged Reading from the jaws of defeat twice, almost single handedly. Had the Argyle defence on strings every single time he picked up the ball. Hate just picking goalscorers as MOTM but Josh has given me no choice personally... </p>
<h2 id="RIoAnw"><strong>Michael Olise: 4</strong></h2>
<p id="oqmhtz">Worst I’ve seen him play in a Reading shirt if I’m being perfectly honest. As much as Plymouth should credit the assist for their opening goal to the referee and his assistant, Olise completely forgot to track his man, which would have prevented the chance in the first place. In a 4-4-2, that’s inexcusable. Other than that, he was fairly blunt going forward, and continued to give Howe no protection on the right. Disappointing. </p>
<h2 id="9uOGSE"><strong>Danny Loader: 5</strong></h2>
<p id="tWsFsP">Again, a fairly abject performance. Showed a few good turns and tricks that saved him from a lower mark, but overall showed little going forward. </p>
<h2 id="9gWLZr"><strong>Yakou Meite: 7</strong></h2>
<p id="omZk2J">Worked hard but struggled in the first half with a lack of service, but came very good in the second half and deserved his goals. When finally given service he beat the keeper superbly to win a penalty late on. Took his spot-kick (under unnecessary stress in my opinion) in emphatic fashion, and then scored a cracking second. The Plymouth keeper could have done better with the second, but we can ignore that for a hard working performance.</p>
<h3 id="8qsgEx"><strong>Substitutes</strong></h3>
<h2 id="UNlMah"><strong>Sam Baldock: 6 </strong></h2>
<p id="6ax4SO">Worked hard. Didn’t do much in his half hour on the pitch except a cracking assist for Yak’s second, which gives him a higher mark. </p>
<h3 id="aHST0s"><strong>Lucas Boyé: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="Y89u9o">In my opinion, he changed the game. Might not have done a lot <em>on</em> the ball, but as soon as he came on Plymouth were suddenly on the back foot. They were afraid of him. He picked up the ball and suddenly there was a feeling around the stadium that something was going to happen. It might have been a coincidence, but the hosts suddenly sat back when he came on. He only had 20 minutes on the pitch so a 7 might be being generous, but put it this way: I don’t think we’d have won the game had he not come on. </p>
<h3 id="Bo3OyM"><strong>Michael Morrison: N/A </strong></h3>
<p id="3sDzls">No time to make an impact. Was in the mixer when we defended that last heart in mouth moment in the box though.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="DGo5FS">
<h3 id="p9r7RG"><em><strong>Average: 5.85/10</strong></em></h3>
<p id="JIjuz7"><em>Who was your man of the match against Huddersfield Town? Vote below or </em><a href="https://linkto.run/p/QCZZN8DD"><em><strong>through this link</strong></em></a><em><strong>.</strong></em></p>
<div id="puWbL4">
<div id="qp_all2477045" style="width:100%;max-width:600px;">
<link href="//fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Open+Sans" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css">
<style>#qp_main2477045 .qp_btna:hover input {background:#00355F!important} #qp_all2477045 {max-width:815px; margin:0 auto;}</style>
<div id="qp_main2477045" fp="69914619-70" results="0" style="border-radius:0px;margin:0 auto 10px auto;padding:0.8em;background-color:#FFF;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;color:#000;border: 1px solid #DBD9D9;max-width:815px;box-sizing:border-box;text-align:left">
<div style="font-size:1em;background-color:#00355F;color:#FFF;font-family:'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial"><div style="padding:0.8em;line-height:1.3em">Who was your man of the match against Plymouth? </div></div>
<form id="qp_form2477045" action="//www.poll-maker.com/results2477045x69914619-70" method="post" target="_blank" style="display:inline;margin:0px;padding:0px">
<div style="padding:0px">
<input type="hidden" name="qp_d2477045" value="43705.8286805507-43705.8286684966"><div style="display:block;color:#6B6B6B;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;font-size:1em;line-height:1.5;padding:13px 8px 11px;margin:10px 0px;clear:both" class="qp_a" onclick="var c=this.getElementsByTagName('INPUT')[0]; if((!event.target?event.srcElement:event.target).tagName!='INPUT'){c.checked=(c.type=='radio'?true:!c.checked)};var i=this.parentNode.parentNode.parentNode.getElementsByTagName('INPUT');for(var k=0;k!=i.length;k=k+1){i[k].parentNode.parentNode.setAttribute('sel',i[k].checked?1:0)}"><span style="display:block;padding-left:30px;cursor:inherit"><input style="float:left;width:20px;margin-left:-25px;margin-top:2px;padding:0px;height:20px;-webkit-appearance:radio;" name="qp_v2477045" type="radio" value="1">Josh Barrett</span></div>
<div style="display:block;color:#6B6B6B;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;font-size:1em;line-height:1.5;padding:13px 8px 11px;margin:10px 0px;clear:both" class="qp_a" onclick="var c=this.getElementsByTagName('INPUT')[0]; if((!event.target?event.srcElement:event.target).tagName!='INPUT'){c.checked=(c.type=='radio'?true:!c.checked)};var i=this.parentNode.parentNode.parentNode.getElementsByTagName('INPUT');for(var k=0;k!=i.length;k=k+1){i[k].parentNode.parentNode.setAttribute('sel',i[k].checked?1:0)}"><span style="display:block;padding-left:30px;cursor:inherit"><input style="float:left;width:20px;margin-left:-25px;margin-top:2px;padding:0px;height:20px;-webkit-appearance:radio;" name="qp_v2477045" type="radio" value="2">Yakou Meite</span></div>
<div style="display:block;color:#6B6B6B;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;font-size:1em;line-height:1.5;padding:13px 8px 11px;margin:10px 0px;clear:both" class="qp_a" onclick="var c=this.getElementsByTagName('INPUT')[0]; if((!event.target?event.srcElement:event.target).tagName!='INPUT'){c.checked=(c.type=='radio'?true:!c.checked)};var i=this.parentNode.parentNode.parentNode.getElementsByTagName('INPUT');for(var k=0;k!=i.length;k=k+1){i[k].parentNode.parentNode.setAttribute('sel',i[k].checked?1:0)}"><span style="display:block;padding-left:30px;cursor:inherit"><input style="float:left;width:20px;margin-left:-25px;margin-top:2px;padding:0px;height:20px;-webkit-appearance:radio;" name="qp_v2477045" type="radio" value="3">Lucas Boye</span></div>
<div style="display:block;color:#6B6B6B;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;font-size:1em;line-height:1.5;padding:13px 8px 11px;margin:10px 0px;clear:both" class="qp_a" onclick="var c=this.getElementsByTagName('INPUT')[0]; if((!event.target?event.srcElement:event.target).tagName!='INPUT'){c.checked=(c.type=='radio'?true:!c.checked)};var i=this.parentNode.parentNode.parentNode.getElementsByTagName('INPUT');for(var k=0;k!=i.length;k=k+1){i[k].parentNode.parentNode.setAttribute('sel',i[k].checked?1:0)}"><span style="display:block;padding-left:30px;cursor:inherit"><input style="float:left;width:20px;margin-left:-25px;margin-top:2px;padding:0px;height:20px;-webkit-appearance:radio;" name="qp_v2477045" type="radio" value="999">Other</span></div>
<div id="qp_ot2477045" style="display:block;color:#6B6B6B;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;font-size:1em;line-height:1.5;padding:13px 8px 11px;margin:10px 0px;clear:both"><div style="padding-left:33px">Please Specify: <input style="width:100%;position:relative;top:2px" name="qp_other2477045" type="text" value="">
</div></div>
</div>
<div style="padding-left:0px;clear:both;text-align:left;margin:1em auto">
<a style="display:inline-block;box-sizing:border-box;-webkit-box-sizing:border-box;-moz-box-sizing:border-box;-ms-box-sizing:border-box;-o-box-sizing:border-box;padding-right:5px;text-decoration:none" class="qp_btna" href="#"><input name="qp_b2477045" style="min-width:7.8em;padding:0.5em;background-color:#0B79D3;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;font-size:16px;color:#FFF;cursor:pointer;cursor:hand;border:0px;-webkit-appearance:none;border-radius:0px" type="submit" btype="v" value="Vote"></a><a style="display:inline-block;box-sizing:border-box;-webkit-box-sizing:border-box;-moz-box-sizing:border-box;-ms-box-sizing:border-box;-o-box-sizing:border-box;padding-left:5px;text-decoration:none" class="qp_btna" href="#"><input name="qp_b2477045" style="min-width:7.8em;padding:0.5em;background-color:#0B79D3;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;font-size:16px;color:#FFF;cursor:pointer;cursor:hand;border:0px;-webkit-appearance:none;border-radius:0px" type="submit" btype="r" value="Results"></a>
</div>
</form>
<div style="display:none">
<div id="qp_rp2477045" style="font-size:14px;width:5ex;text-align:right;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;right:5px;height:1.5em;line-height:1.5em"></div>
<div id="qp_rv2477045" style="font-size:14px;line-height:1.5em;width:0%;text-align:right;color:#FFF;box-sizing:border-box;padding-right:3px"></div>
<div id="qp_rb2477045" style="font-size:14px;line-height:1.5em;color:#FFFFFF;display:block;padding-right:10px 5px"></div>
<div id="qp_rva2477045" style="background:#006FB9;border-color:#006FB9"></div>
<div id="qp_rvb2477045" style="background:#163463;border-color:#163463"></div>
<div id="qp_rvc2477045" style="background:#5BCFFC;border-color:#1481AB"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align:center; margin:5px;"><a id="qp_foot2477045" href="https://linkto.run/e/QCZZN8DD">Online Survey Creator</a></div>
</div>
<script src="//scripts.poll-maker.com/3012/scpolls.js" language="javascript"></script>
</div>
<p id="DkB8Wh"></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/28/20836444/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-carabao-cupThe Tilehurst End Guest Writer2019-08-27T21:50:30+01:002019-08-27T21:50:30+01:00Plymouth Argyle 2-4 Reading: Instant Report
<figure>
<img alt="Plymouth Argyle v Reading - Carabao Cup Second Round" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cBpGrZepPN0mhZAUUxKpAcHhTzg=/0x287:4515x3297/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65121052/1170574149.jpg.5.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Royals went through to the next round of the League Cup with a battling victory in the south west. </p> <p id="KCNN0U">Reading love drama in the League Cup this season, don’t they? After edging past Wycombe Wanderers on penalties in the last round, the Royals came out on top in a six-goal thriller at Home Park on Tuesday evening. Josh Barrett and Yakou both scored twice, while Ryan Taylor and Jose Baxter netting one goal a piece for the home side. </p>
<h3 id="YJ5AeM"><strong>How Reading set up</strong></h3>
<p id="buPELA">Jose Gomes made the full 11 changes to the side that won away at Huddersfield Town 2-0, giving the first team a well-earned break. They were replaced by a very young group, with an average age of just over 22 years and 4 months, but captained by none other than Jordan Obita. </p>
<p id="Gd7We2">The left back made his long-awaited return to first-team football, playing for Reading’s senior side after more than 700 days on the sidelines - although he’d appeared for the under-23s in recent weeks to build up his fitness. He was joined in defence by debutant Akin Odimayo; the 19 year-old centre back became the 53rd player to graduate from the Royals’ academy.</p>
<p id="v4X6Ku">Elsewhere, Sam Walker started in goal, with a back four of Teddy Howe, Gabriel Osho, Odimayo and Obita. Charlie Adam and Andy Rinomhota were in midfield, with Josh Barrett, Michael Olise, Danny Loader and Yakou Meite further up.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="ZCmURm">
<p id="POOiUl">Reading went 1-0 down after 22 minutes, but the goal shouldn’t have stood. Before Ryan Taylor finished, the ball clearly went out of play just by the post. Nonetheless, the goal counted. </p>
<div id="I1K86b">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Top notch officiating as always, never change EFL <a href="https://t.co/7VrTHi67Cl">pic.twitter.com/7VrTHi67Cl</a></p>— Dan (@DanRBlackham) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanRBlackham/status/1166427798237581313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="9wzSUp">We were back on terms not long later. With 35 minutes on the clock, Charlie Adam intercepted a pass on the left wing, before sliding it upfield for Josh Barrett. The Irishman drove forwards, cut inside into the penalty area, and fired a low, powerful shot past Michael Cooper in the Pilgrims’ goal. </p>
<p id="jG6REK">Argyle were the next to score, getting back in front after the break through former Everton man Jose Baxter who scored from range past Walker. However, Barrett again squared things up, making it 2-2 on 72 minutes.</p>
<p id="3OyR85">From there on in, it was The Yakou Meite Show. The Ivorian won - and converted - a penalty 87 minutes to put Reading in front for the first time in the match, before doubling our lead a few minutes later by putting the final touch on a counter attack.</p>
<div id="KPBqnM">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yakou Meite winning and scoring a penalty - weeks after being racially abused for missing one - is such a fine example of football’s love affair with narrative. <br><br>...Two goals from an academy baller and another one for Yaks is just showing off. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/kYOFZSGMRH">https://t.co/kYOFZSGMRH</a></p>— Greg Double (@Dubstep1988) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dubstep1988/status/1166450828955258881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="T1RF9n">All in all, a cracking win and great confidence booster for Reading’s fringe players. The game was a big opportunity for players short on game time to stake their claim for bigger involvement in the league, and Josh Barrett and Yakou Meite certainly did that with their braces.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/8/27/20835483/plymouth-argyle-2-4-reading-fc-instant-report-royalsBucksRoyal