The Tilehurst End - Reading 0-1 Leeds United: Full CoverageReading FC blog run by fans, for fans.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52568/tte_fav.png2019-11-29T10:00:00+00:00http://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/rss/stream/207503812019-11-29T10:00:00+00:002019-11-29T10:00:00+00:00Tactics Review: Solid Rearguard Action Not Enough To Deny Leeds
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<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship - Madejski Stadium" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ct0jfwTlHJvgwCbl2CA7Q7FBuOU=/0x0:2364x1576/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65795477/1184877984.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA Images via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Reading’s defence did a great job on Tuesday night, but were undone by a lack of creativity in the final third. </p> <p id="D2ruqv">Reading fell to a second defeat in two after promotion-chasing Leeds United ran out 1-0 winners thanks to a late Jack Harrison goal. Reading lined up in a 3-5-2: Rafael; Gunter, Moore, Miazga, Morrison, Richards; Rinomhota, Ejaria, Swift; Puscas, Meite.</p>
<p id="IFHcpe">Leeds’s main threats came from out wide and, interestingly, when pressing the forward line, George Puscas would take up a position on the left with Meite in the middle. This suggested that Reading were directing Leeds’s build up play to their left flank, with United unable to really trouble the returning Chris Gunter, opting to switch the play to the right hand side instead. Leeds move the ball far better than any other side in the Championship, but despite their probing Reading were organised and strong in defence. Michael Morrison had an especially impressive game, blocking numerous shots and almost scoring himself in the second half.</p>
<p id="9iygvk">Most of the game involved Leeds being in possession with Reading ready to spring a break, and once again John Swift and Ovie Ejaria had impressive, if restricted, performances. Despite fantastic defensive displays from both, it could be argued that both did not need to be so deep as in the second half Reading rarely threatened the visitors’ goal. With Leeds’ half-time rollicking/change in intensity, Reading struggled to get up the field and could not hold onto the ball, Leeds’ midfield constantly picking up the second balls in the middle of the park. </p>
<p id="V0oH1q">However with Leeds looking to stretch the play and get crosses into the box (their goal coming from one such ball in), perhaps Reading needed all the bodies back they could muster as the game was heading for a goalless draw until Helder Costa’s deflected cross was met by the head of Jack Harrison. That said, Ejaria had many moments of magic on Tuesday night, constantly giving Kalvin Phillips the run around and once again looking like one of Reading’s main sources of chances.</p>
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<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/O5WsDSNar3IRuAvJ5UvfY8meVAA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19416679/1190235345.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="Rapn0Z">Omar Richards once again slightly struggled, sometimes being caught out in possession and maybe highlighting Jordan Obita’s defensive attributes as something to strive towards. On the other flank, Chris Gunter had a fantastic game having not been in the side since May. An assured performance was all the Royals needed against one of the best attacks in the league and is what they got, Gunter providing defensive solidity against Harrison while also offering support up the field, putting in a good first-half cross.</p>
<p id="rEHXZM">Reading’s approach of going long to Puscas and Meite didn’t quite work due to the front two not having much support and not being able to keep hold of the ball. Puscas was especially guilty of this but both players did well to take a number of tricky balls down first time when under pressure from the Leeds defence. Despite a chance from a quick break from a Leeds corner, they did not combine as well as Baldock and Puscas do. The substitutions to bring on Lucas Boye and Danny Loader showed slight promise but not a single loose ball quite fell their way with Leeds able to see the game out.</p>
<p id="qgBf6S">The manner of defeat in the last two games for Reading will not cause Bowen to be too downhearted, if not just disappointed at being edged out both times. Reading have shown a defensive resilience and will look to take that forwards into their upcoming games against Wigan Athletic, Birmingham City, Barnsley and Stoke. Despite not creating many chances (albeit against two of the best defences in the league), the Royals were not expected to get much out of either game and certainly acquitted themselves well. If Reading can take points in their next few (very winnable) games, then they should be looking up the league rather than down it.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/29/20987369/tactics-review-solid-rearguard-action-not-enough-to-deny-leeds-united-reading-fc-royalsjamiewykes2019-11-29T07:30:00+00:002019-11-29T07:30:00+00:00Reading 0-1 Leeds United: The Alternative View
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<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship - Madejski Stadium" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/La9CqT_jLIHYz5oA7M9nLiq8pHA=/139x0:4320x2787/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65795331/1130143574.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA Images via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>What the media and Leeds fans made of Tuesday night’s game. </p> <p id="E51">Reading followed up Mark Bowen’s first defeat of his reign at Brentford with the visit of high-flying Leeds, who were looking to go back to the top of the table.</p>
<p id="E58">It was an attritional game, with Reading working hard to blunt what has been a lively Leeds attack this season. In the end it was frustrating not to get a point from the game. The views from the Leeds fans seem to be that we should have come out and played an open expansive game to allow them to run through us. </p>
<p id="1QBAYT">In reality this was a decent defensive display and yes we didn’t create a lot and looked a bit blunt up top, but we are also in the lower reaches of the table and every point is precious. How you get it is largely irrelevant. </p>
<p id="E65">This Leeds side does look better than last season’s, and I truly look forward to their annual end of season #BottleJob</p>
<h2 id="E70"><strong>Social</strong></h2>
<h3 id="E72"><strong>Annual meltdown incoming?</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Get through the festive season and we’re laughing. Can’t see anyone other than Fulham catching us and WBA <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a></p>— Nathan Clark (@Nathan_Clark8) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nathan_Clark8/status/1199476269756428296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="kvJZgC"><strong>It’s only Ovie!</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Who was the Reading number 14 in centre midfield for them tonight? Some player by the way! I don’t think we were as bad as what people are saying just struggled to break the two banks of four down! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a></p>— Jay Wright (@Jaywright1988) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaywright1988/status/1199468260711976960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="LFrAE3"><strong>I wouldn’t</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Most fans would be thrilled if their team was in our position, but given that we collapsed like a house of cards in a hurricane last season, I’m refusing to get too excited <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/ytjf4mlTEQ">pic.twitter.com/ytjf4mlTEQ</a></p>— The K is Silent (@JoeandEvansDad) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeandEvansDad/status/1199466829518901253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="5rYky3"><strong>Good god a Leeds fan speaking sense</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great breakaway goal to win the game tonight. Reading were well drilled and nothing was a given tonight. Ben White superb again. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a></p>— Jamie Collins (@LUJC83) <a href="https://twitter.com/LUJC83/status/1199462882251100160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="JAq8eQ"><strong>Um Pele?</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Very good result that tonight especially against a team containing Puscas and Pele! <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> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a></p>— Brent Sheldon (@armleyartist) <a href="https://twitter.com/armleyartist/status/1199461711864041473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="r3asDw"><strong>We both had two shots on target?</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yeah robbed it good and proper all them clear cut chances you had <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/8INTERTQUy">https://t.co/8INTERTQUy</a></p>— mathew hibbert (@matteohib94) <a href="https://twitter.com/matteohib94/status/1199461486902611968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="cULVNZ"><strong>When was the last time you were in the Premier League?</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enjoyed that! Hate coming to Reading. One of the best things about getting out of the Championship would be not having to come to the most pointless club in world football. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a> <a href="https://t.co/eMTnagOydT">https://t.co/eMTnagOydT</a></p>— Jonny Howard (@Jonny__Howard) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jonny__Howard/status/1199458955648483329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="TkBGg0"><strong>Oh sorry shall we play to lose?</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Why are pundits praising Reading, played to stifle Leeds not to win the game at home, shows how narrow minded some clubs and managers are. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MOT?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MOT</a></p>— nick briggs (@nickbriggs72) <a href="https://twitter.com/nickbriggs72/status/1199454571174727680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="KuPSmK"><strong>Really</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">New song for Jack Harrison <br>Bon Jovi - Bad Medicine <br><br>You wish you had Jack Harrison.<br>Jack Harrison is what you need.<br>Whooah oh oh.<br>Shake it up just like Jack Harrison.<br>He left Man City to come play here at Leeds.<br>Jaaaack. Jaaaack. Harrison.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a></p>— LUFC Choir Practice (@LUFC_Choir) <a href="https://twitter.com/LUFC_Choir/status/1199450731578822656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="8n6Dby"><strong>Um just no</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ben White & Kalvin Phillips should be starting for England <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lufc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lufc</a></p>— Dan Samme (@DanSamme) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanSamme/status/1199448536754130946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h3 id="x67Gra"><strong>Again what are we meant to do?</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Squeaky bum time there, don’t agree with Sky commentators saying reading should feel hard done by, they’ve not gone out to win the game at all, wanted 0-0, or smash and grab win. Boring team who didn’t deserve anything from that. <br><br>Try try and try again! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MOT?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MOT</a></p>— Talk About Leeds (@talkaboutlufc) <a href="https://twitter.com/talkaboutlufc/status/1199446611312750592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h2 id="E629"><strong>Media</strong></h2>
<p id="E631">Leading the way this week is <a href="https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/it-serves-right-ex-leeds-17326470">Berkshire Live</a> with an astonishing rant by Noel Whelan over the style of Reading’s play. It seems to be that we should have come out and let Leeds walk all over us!</p>
<p id="E636"><a href="https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/baller-class-plenty-of-leeds-united-fans-are-impressed-with-this-reading-players-performance/">Football League World</a> has a large amount of coverage around the game, with the highlight for me being the section on Ovie Ejaria who seemingly impressed the Leeds fans who have been calling for Kalvin Philips to get an England call up! This is Futbol also have <a href="https://thisisfutbol.com/2019/11/twitter/leeds-united-fans-impressed-by-ben-whites-performance-against-reading/">coverage on Ben White’s performance</a>, again thinking he should get an England call up (ok let’s just play every English Leeds player). </p>
<p id="E657">The Yorkshire Evening post has a few articles, even <a href="https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/latest-leeds-united-news/reading-forward-reveals-leeds-united-disruption-plan-following-late-royals-heartbreak-1326026">one with Yakou Meite</a> saying how disappointing it was to lose the game (no s**t), and they also have a match report which can be <a href="https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/latest-leeds-united-news/reading-0-leeds-united-1-whites-leave-it-late-again-jack-harrison-sends-marcelo-bielsa-top-pile-1325282">found here</a>. To be fair they are actually complementary to Reading and say that Leeds’ play was “riddled” with mistakes.</p>
<p id="E673">The beauty of the internet and social media is that basically anyone can put an article up and say what they like (<em><strong>Editor’s note</strong></em><em>: they sure can - send us an email at thetilehurstend@gmail.com if you want to do one about Reading</em>). </p>
<p id="47Cte3">This is an example of basically a rant in response to <a href="https://www.thesquareball.net/leeds-united/reading-0-1-leeds-united-growing-up/">this piece from The Square Ball</a>. OK so Reading might not have the history of Leeds, or a fan base that seems that they have a divine right to promotion, but basically having a go at “dirge concepts” is a little boring. The expectation that we shouldn’t put on a defensive show against a top-two team is ludicrous and, being frank, Leeds might get a lot more warmness from other clubs if they didn’t charge frankly obscene ticket prices.</p>
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<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/p1IVd1cIEct_FwQxVG8HIII9nlw=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19416670/1190241219.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="E680">Back to normality and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.telegraph.co.uk%2Ffootball%2F2019%2F11%2F26%2Fleeds-united-march-back-top-jack-harrison-breaks-readings-resistance%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fthetilehurstend.sbnation.com%2F2019%2F11%2F29%2F20987355%2Freading-fc-0-1-leeds-united-the-alternative-view-royals-madejski-stadium" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">the Telegraph</a> are all about how bad Leeds played and Marcelo Bielsa’s tactics. Similarly <a href="https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1209812/Leeds-United-news-Jack-Harrison-Marcelo-Bielsa-tactics-Reading">down at the Express</a> it’s basically all about the goal and the build-up to it. They have interviews with Harrison and Bielsa, but limit any interaction to Reading to: we turned up.</p>
<p id="E697"><a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/marcelo-bielsa-fires-warning-leeds-20970218">The Mirror</a> doesn’t really have a match report, more of comments from Bielsa about not getting carried away (as if Leeds fans would!). The only comments about the game is that Leeds had double the shots and the lion’s share of possession but did little with it.</p>
<p id="E706"><a href="https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/teams/leeds-united/11871242/reading-0-1-leeds">Sky Sports</a> have 2.03 minutes of video and you do have to say that Meite header and the scramble in the Leeds box should have both been converted as they are gilt-edged opportunities. The report echoes that - they give mention to Meite’s header and also the “thunderous” drive from Stuart Dallas which hit the bar.</p>
<h3 id="E724"><strong>Closing thoughts</strong></h3>
<p id="E726">Brentford and Leeds in succession were always going to be a challenge, and while the results weren’t what we wanted the performances were not terrible. </p>
<p id="GW86Ic">We did have to deal with a couple of enforced changes, with Andy Yiadom serving a ban and Meite in for the injured Sam Baldock. Chris Gunter coming back into the team polarised the fan base, however what you got was a standard decent Gunter performance with a decent showing defensively and a limited attack. He didn’t do anything wrong though and actually gave a lot better performance than Omar Richards on the left.</p>
<p id="E748">Meite on the other hand - personally I wouldn’t have started this game with him. I haven’t been overly impressed with him this season and neither him nor Puscas are setting the world alight. Saying that, they didn’t have an awful lot to work with, which for me is why having a slightly more creative player in Boye behind them might have been the better option.</p>
<p id="E776">What has happened now though with the two defeats is that the next run of games starting with Wigan are all winnable. Taking nine points from these might give us some breathing space and help us push to the ideal of mid-table obscurity. </p>
<p id="E779">This however will entail our misfiring strikeforce to start banging the goals in. If they don’t then Christmas may not be as wonderful as we would all like. With January around the corner, it will be interesting to see how much, if any, money Bowen has to spend.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/29/20987355/reading-fc-0-1-leeds-united-the-alternative-view-royals-madejski-stadiumdavemc_exile2019-11-28T08:00:00+00:002019-11-28T08:00:00+00:00Leeds United Fans Verdict: Royals Hit By Late Sucker Punch
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<p>How the Loyal Royals reacted to some of the key talking points to come watching their team’s second 1-0 loss on the bounce.</p> <p id="LQ6ulU">I think everyone anticipated a very tough test on Tuesday night when Leeds United rolled into town, and a tough test is what Mark Bowen’s men duly got. Leeds are obviously a very, very good team and will certainly be challenging at the top end of the table come the end of the season, so Reading were always going to be up against the odds.</p>
<p id="ZmKSYx">Reading did however nullify Leeds’ attacking quality very well up until the 87th minute when Jack Harrison nodded home from six yards to cap off a swift counter attack from the visitors after Reading squandered a free kick opportunity on the edge of Leeds’ box.</p>
<p id="ColVwe">Our defensive performance is definitely something the players and Bowen will take a lot of confidence from; there is no doubt that we have been so much better defensively in recent games. But our attacking performance will also concern Bowen, because we never really looked like scoring all game.</p>
<p id="q5x1c5">If we are going to start climbing the table and looking up rather than down, our attacking woes are going to have to be solved sooner rather than later. The likes of George Puscas, Lucas Boye and the soon-to-return Lucas Joao are going to have to find their shooting boots.</p>
<p id="Isp6H6">Here’s some of the key talking points to come from the match, and how you Loyal Royals reacted to them on Twitter...</p>
<h2 id="o4j9es"><strong>Chris Gunter</strong></h2>
<p id="m4TpZp">This was always one lineup decision that we all knew Bowen had to make - who was going to replace the suspended Andy Yiadom? A player who has been so valuable to our team ever since he joined in the summer of 2017.</p>
<p id="72gdoK">Under Jose Gomes it would’ve more than likely been academy graduate Teddy Howe or maybe even moving Andy Rinomhota out to fill that position, but Mark Bowen opted for his compatriot Chris Gunter - another player he has brought back in from the cold.</p>
<p id="hYgGNI">It’s fair to say that Gunter has more than split the opinion of the Reading fanbase for a number of seasons now - but one thing you cannot doubt is his professionalism and commitment.</p>
<p id="K79Ro9">Some fans were happy to see him back, some not so much. However, most fans agreed on the fact that he actually had a pretty solid game and proved himself as a very good back up to Yiadom...</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gunter was actually alright tonight, I for one wasn’t too keen on him being included in tonight’s line up but he proved me wrong. Good performance from him despite the result <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— chloe (@_chloerfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/_chloerfc/status/1199450298969993216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just to clarify, I hope Gunter has the game of his life. Like I have every time I’ve seen him play previously and he hasn’t. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Will Trow (@noseypeg) <a href="https://twitter.com/noseypeg/status/1199403569335672832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ridiculous how fans don't want Gunter to do well. Yes, he's not as good as Yiadom but he still very capable at Championship level. The disrespect to a player with 250+ caps is shocking. <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/1199405579766251520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Brilliant first half from Gunter. <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></p>— Ed blythman (@Ed_Blythman) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ed_Blythman/status/1199431559780216833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="CSBgYf">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Considering alot of people were worried about no yiadom tonight I think Gunter was excellent for a player that was kicked to the side in pre season <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Jamie Cresswell (@Jamiecresswell) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jamiecresswell/status/1199446784889806855?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="ApkRXf">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Personally thought that was Gunter’s best game this season <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a></p>— Ian Anderson (@ianandy62) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianandy62/status/1199449523740925958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="Dk5ZvX">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’m going to own up to something and say Gunter played well. And he was a good fill in for Yidom. I will own up and say I apologise for what I have said before. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Mark Robson (@MarkRobson15) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkRobson15/status/1199453283389190144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h2 id="SMp4nD"><strong>Ovie Ejaria</strong></h2>
<p id="C9Flin">Another game, another Ovie Ejaria masterclass. There isn’t much to be said that hasn’t already been said about Ovie, but just watching him play football is an absolute privilege - and his performance on Tuesday had both the home and the away fans purring.</p>
<p id="vuFuUh">In a performance where we offered very little in the offensive third - for the second game in a row - Ovie was the one who always looked like the one who was going to create something or do something special, as he so often is.</p>
<p id="iApB0K">He is a true fans’ favourite, and the love was pouring in from all angles yet again for Reading’s star man after the game...</p>
<div id="HCkugw">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Loved all types of players for Reading over the years, but Ejaria is joining that small bunch of players that just make you laugh and hear yourself swearing at his outrageous ability<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a></p>— Dom Josling (@DomJos101) <a href="https://twitter.com/DomJos101/status/1199450628239642624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="XmdBdc">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I mean if he goes into the englabd squad surely Ovie Ejaria has to be in there<br>Had him for dinner tonight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/bKSfHinskN">https://t.co/bKSfHinskN</a></p>— Will RFC ⚪️ (@willsumner09) <a href="https://twitter.com/willsumner09/status/1199451975911432193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="ULsElX">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Absolutely hilarious that we’re signing Ejaria for just £3m at the end of the season. Bargain of the century <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/1199459140327944194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="FivixP">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Went to the game tonight expecting to come away raving about Kalvin Phillips, but Ovie Ejaria gave him the absolute runaround. Unlucky to not take a point from *arguably* the best team in the league. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/O0rG3mIH1B">pic.twitter.com/O0rG3mIH1B</a></p>— Adam Goodwin (@AdamGoodwin__) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamGoodwin__/status/1199459485649121280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="4klFIt">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’m just enjoying having the privilege to watch Ovie Ejaria every week tbh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Alex Dow (@AlexDow9) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexDow9/status/1199460835099369475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="fpK0Xx">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ovie Ejaria has one of the best dms in the league on toast the entire game. While phillips showed very little of his quality last night, ejaria completely bossed him <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LUFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LUFC</a></p>— Harry (@dingharry___) <a href="https://twitter.com/dingharry___/status/1199622841693589504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2019</a>
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<div id="fzoQwO">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I really hope that the Ejaria deal is done. By far the best baller on that pitch last night and by far the best player in the championship. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— smudger (@smujjii87) <a href="https://twitter.com/smujjii87/status/1199631737762074624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2019</a>
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<div id="71tWCs">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Everyone is slowly realising that Ovie Ejaria is the best midfielder in the world. You love to see it ⚪️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZSG5mZCv9P">pic.twitter.com/ZSG5mZCv9P</a></p>— Oli Bryant (@OliB_RFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/OliB_RFC/status/1199681268344147971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2019</a>
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<h2 id="WDetCS"><strong>Battling performance</strong></h2>
<p id="KsOm4H">Even though Reading ultimately lost the game and that’s really all that matters when you look at the league table, the Reading fans were quick to praise the overall defensive performance from the players.</p>
<p id="Fvz3VB">It is something the Bowen has regularly stated, he wants this team to be a hard team to beat and become nastier and grittier which is something that has clearly happened - but everyone knows we still have a lot of work to do in the final third, the last two games have showed that in abundance.</p>
<p id="nioXbq">Overall the fans were happy with the performance but were also left frustrated at the lack of attacking intent...</p>
<div id="h6LEbf">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">You never got that under Gomes. A solid first half performance by every single player on the pitch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Zammo (@Zammathon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zammathon/status/1199429931626840067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="ndlHL5">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wasn’t a bad performance in all fairness, we defended really well and was unlucky. The fact we lost by 1 goal to two top teams shows our defence is improving, just need to start scoring <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a></p>— Harry Sands (@SarryHands) <a href="https://twitter.com/SarryHands/status/1199447099919798272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="BUZBcU">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We played really well and can take a lot of positives from that performance. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Jamie Tillen (@JamieTillen7) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamieTillen7/status/1199447307055271936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="jNvucG">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A decent performance from us today, don’t think we really deserved to lose. We probably had the best chance of the game when Meite just fell over in the box and we defended excellently throughout. Just typical Leeds putting away their only good chance of the game . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a></p>— Oli Bryant (@OliB_RFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/OliB_RFC/status/1199449710953730049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="Qy9QZz">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I obviously care that we lost but that performance huge for my confidence in us staying has grown massively. We look hard to beat. It’s just trying to create the chances to score when we are under such serious pressure. Many positives <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Readingfc</a></p>— Ben1871 (@Ben18712) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ben18712/status/1199451728925667330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="izHJLL">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We didnt quite put it together on the counter tonight but bear in mind we've played against a few of best CBs in the division the last two games. It probably isn't as simple as our attack has had two bad days in a row... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Jordan Cottle (@JordanCottle) <a href="https://twitter.com/JordanCottle/status/1199454529365913600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="Km4XwS">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Some poor individual performances but Bowen takes the blame for me tonight. Naive to think we could sit that deep and soak up all that pressure for the whole 90 minutes. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a></p>— Ben (@BenParsons89) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenParsons89/status/1199451855442632705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<div id="slQZYb">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Unlucky to not get anything out of that game. A good defensive performance from the Royals but not enough to keep out Leeds. We need more upfront if we want to climb the table⚪ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— RFC (@AdamH1871) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamH1871/status/1199471888055099392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a>
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<h2 id="G8RAQd"><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p id="lAwLhu">Another disappointing result ultimately and one that again highlighted where we need some more work. At the back we look very solid and organised, but sometimes when you come up against teams like Leeds - that alone isn’t enough.</p>
<p id="HEeslb">A much more winnable game coming up on Saturday as we travel to Wigan Athletic. </p>
<p id="svXHuT">URZ</p>
<p id="OMKcxh"></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/28/20985900/leeds-united-fans-verdict-royals-hit-by-late-sucker-punch-reading-fcharry.chafer2019-11-27T15:30:00+00:002019-11-27T15:30:00+00:00Mark Bowen On Leeds United Defeat: A ‘Tough One To Take’
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<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8uW5stum06DQWAvx7CfxknpPHfA=/140x0:5384x3496/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65784704/1190241234.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The manager took positives from Reading’s performance against high-flying Leeds despite the result. </p> <p id="zA8u7T">Reading deserved so much more from our game against Leeds United at the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday night, but were unlucky to not pick up any points. Leeds showed why they are where they are, scoring the winner late on to secure the three points and go top of the table. Reading remain in 18th and pick up their second defeat in three days.</p>
<p id="lZIfTy">Mark Bowen knows that we need to offer more in front of goal but felt the defeat was a tough one to take. He spoke to GetReading after the game.</p>
<h3 id="RbIZ2x"><strong>Bowen on the defeat</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="BwjU8U">“It was a tough one to take. We had a game plan and did a lot of preparation on Leeds. They’re a team who create a lot of chances and they had a fair bit of possession but I don’t think our goalkeeper had a shot to save.</p>
<p id="swN2PC">“But we’re a bit bitter because we were looking to play a more counter-attacking game but in doing that we have to be better at retaining the ball and making more use of it going into the final third.</p>
<p id="niBKQV">“I said at the start I’m putting demands on the players and I feel we should be higher up the league so I’ll continue to do that and work to improve them as well. When we go into those forward areas we have to be better as a group in retaining the ball a bit better and making sure we finish with more shots on goal in games.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="sYYWr0"><strong>Bowen on the progression of the team since he took over</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="945AxJ">“I’ll have a go at them but at the same time I’ll pat them on the back. We have a team now which is competitive and we have to be a team which turns good performances into points on the board.</p>
<p id="8wYyoX">“We took a little bit of unfair criticism for Saturday’s game and although we lost I look at the physical stats and again tonight we smashed them in terms of physicality, sprints, high-speeds runs, etc. My team are giving everything they have got - we now need to turn this into shots and points on the board.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="1KglYx"><strong>Bowen on Chris Gunter’s performance</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="HGBDst">“Special mention for Chris Gunter. He’s had a difficult time but he showed the true pro that he is. To come into a difficult situation playing the league leaders at home - I thought he had a smashing game.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="Z8ta6T"><strong>Bowen on Joao and Baldock</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="oyqL4B">“Joao will play a part for the under-23s in their game with Charlton on Thursday so we’ll see how he does. Baldock has had two scans which haven’t really shown anything but the problem is he’s an explosive player so we have to be wary with him.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="asKBEE"><strong>Bowen on Puscas’ dip in form</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="8xMT8H">“George is working hard and like any striker you feel for him at times. There was a lot of pressure and expectancy put on him when he signed up but he’s still a young player and learning the game.</p>
<p id="1qHMAh">“He’s one we have to nurture and give belief too. I’m not saying he’s totally lacking in confidence but it will affect him because he is a young boy and he wants to do well.</p>
<p id="PcnzYe">“We have to make sure we do the right things with him, say the right things and like any striker he has it in his locker to go and score two or three on Saturday and then he’s off and running.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="eaP2LS"><strong>Bowen on resting Puscas</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="yIB5Op">“I don’t know. We have to look at things carefully in that respect. Every striker is pushing for a starting place. They are all waiting and chomping at the bit. The form of the team has turned round in recent weeks and I see a desire in the players’ eyes to produce and win games to climb the table.</p>
<p id="PE1L37">“It’s been hard - losing 1-0 on Saturday and tonight so it’s a mental thing to lick our wounds and come back and make sure we’re at it at Wigan.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="DuClF1"></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/27/20985112/mark-bowen-on-leeds-united-defeat-a-tough-one-to-take-reading-fc-royalssophierfc102019-11-27T14:20:35+00:002019-11-27T14:20:35+00:00Reading 0-1 Leeds United: Armchair Match Report
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<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/m35pZMf5NiLWnhN1Rz-fpaFYwSM=/49x0:3351x2201/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65784230/1184808752.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Andrew Kearns - CameraSport via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Ben’s take on how Tuesday night’s match unfolded, as viewed from the comfort of his living room. </p> <p id="dSWPZd">Look, can I just shock you? I didn’t go to the game. I can’t give you any experience of the matchday atmosphere because I wasn’t physically there. Nothing I am about to tell you relates to the Whitley Bowl (what I call the Mad Stad) or the surrounding area. </p>
<p id="ZDV94S">What I CAN give you is an armchair fan’s guide to this game. So if you want to stop reading right now and go and watch a repeat of The Martin Lewis Money Show (easily the best factual programme on TV right now), that’s fine. </p>
<p id="OOGncl">If you’re still with me, great. The fact it was on ‘proper’ TV (ie not the red button) was pleasing, as was the build up to the game from Glenn Murray and Michael Br*wn (a chap I still haven’t forgiven for his days as being a paid thug in a workmanlike Leeds midfield). Scott Minto is easily one of the most underrated anchors on Sky Sports, infinitely better than that a**ehole Prutton, so the 30 minutes or so prior to kick off passed reasonably quickly.</p>
<p id="DTeFe2">As they continued to show shots of the South Reading Mega Plex filling up slowly, I wondered when Our Saviour Mark Bowen would appear. Sure enough, he arrived on screen in immaculate attire (suit jacket, cashmere v-neck and tie - soooooo European) and spoke about the positivity around the team. </p>
<p id="VH0VgS">I was struck by both the texture and neatness of his beard and the way he discussed ‘us’ rather than ‘them’, instead focusing on what we could do rather than what Leeds could do. On a separate note, it was great to see Chris Gunter out on the pitch. I know he divides opinion, but I really do feel he adds value and experience to the team and has never really put a foot wrong.</p>
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<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/NdccjwvIRRCk5UaLijNPrbslLOo=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19413318/1190245095.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="xtbU99">The game started at a reasonably quick pace. Leeds built an attack within the first minute which, luckily, didn’t set the tone for the first half. Reading then hit back with a deliciously naughty ball into the box that Puscas couldn’t connect with. Things then settled down a bit, with the commentators finding the time within the first 10 minutes to discuss Bowen’s appointment. What I deeply enjoy about these little sound bites is the way they talk about it is if they were there at the time, so sure of the information they’ve been given and treating it all as fact. Likewise, the focus on Gunter. I could be a commentator, no probs.</p>
<p id="qcGusq">Reading were playing well, restricting Leeds to half-hearted attempts. They allowed the Whites to have the ball, but didn’t allow them to do anything with it. Reading ran the ball regularly and looked to find openings in the Leeds defence, forcing the commentary team to appreciate the quality of Ovie Ejaria. On 14 minutes we were treated to some swearing from a fan through the audio, which led to an apology from the voices in the box. Classic angry Royals fans, classic Sky Sports response!</p>
<p id="AmzmFc">Halfway through the first half, I fancied a beer. Safe in the knowledge I didn’t have to queue/pay for it and that I could drink it in full view of the pitch (admittedly through the telly box), I went for it. A Vienna Lager by the good folks at West Berkshire Brewery was my liquor of choice, which went down as smoothly as Reading’s game plan. </p>
<aside id="4NfA5i"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Reading 0-1 Leeds United: Player Ratings","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/27/20985155/reading-fc-0-1-leeds-united-player-ratings-royals"}]}'></div></aside><p id="OHIXLS">The Yorkshiremen were passing in circles and not getting anywhere and we were growing in confidence, pushing ever closer to that opening goal. The best chance of the half fell to Yakou Meite, a strong header which was met with safe hands by the goal tender on 40 minutes, a moment which caused me to shriek loudly and send the cat (who was fast asleep next to me on the sofa) scurrying across the floor to safety. </p>
<p id="fd1s8M">Half time arrived and I needed a snack. Again, the pleasure of not having to queue/deal with average customer service led me to the snack box (yes, I have a snack box - get over it) and a cheeky personal bag of honeyed cashew nuts. As I tucked into the sweet but partially nutritious snack, I chortled to myself at the thought of my fellow Dolan Standers munching on their stale Mars bars in the cold. I skipped the half-time chit chat and instead loaded the dishwasher and answered some emails, ignoring the festive adverts (it’s bloody November!!) as I went about my business.</p>
<p id="NG6HzL">I also opened another beer, to which I was reminded by wife that it was a Tuesday and that I might “get drunk”. I calmly and respectfully explained to her that I was a 34 year-old man with two academic degrees and that I could do what I wanted. I also stated (again calmly) that they were my beers and that maybe she should go and watch ‘I’m a Celeb...’ upstairs. With the drama over and the peace restored, I settled down with my second beer (I had the last laugh!) and began my viewing of the second half.</p>
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<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/nk71SR4AVPBZqFYA5Z3ZxbnGAN4=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19413328/1190255186.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Ovie Ejaria lets fly from range</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="i0uzXD">Leeds began brightly, passing it around smoothly and with purpose. The front players looked more alive and were more of a threat after the interval. Reading quickly regained control of the tempo of the match and continued to stifle any threat. I’m not ashamed to say that I fell asleep for 5/10 minutes (that bloody second beer!!) and woke to see Leeds hit the crossbar, an attempt which left Rafael well beaten. </p>
<p id="Wx6OpN">A free kick from Swift was parried by the goalkeeper, at which point Leeds went up the other end and scored. I was apoplectic with rage at this point, mainly with one man: Lucas Boye. He gave the ball away incredibly cheaply, didn’t track back and then stopped moving altogether. Really, really poor from a player who is still trying to convince the fan base of his worth and, more importantly, his overall fitness levels. We didn’t deserve to concede at that point and the Leeds players knew they had probably robbed the three points, with the celebrations reaching an ugly crescendo with some baiting of the home fans from Patrick Bamford (who I bloody hate). </p>
<p id="H15tqV">As the clocked ticked down, it was clear we were going to be handed our second 1-0 defeat of the week. Based on both performances and the manner of the losses against two teams who will be there or thereabouts this season, I’d classify that as progress under Bowen. It will take some time to fully implement his way of playing, but the lack of ‘root and branch’ changes mean that there is a clear path for the team to follow. </p>
<p id="isX6GR">The fact that the squad seem reasonably harmonious and some of the summer signings are looking more assured (Michael Morrison, Matt Miazga and Rafael) mean that the team is heading in the right direction as we get into the insanity that is the festive period. And I will remember to curb the midweek ‘drinking’ in future.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/27/20985243/reading-fc-0-1-leeds-united-armchair-match-reportThe Tilehurst End Guest Writer2019-11-27T10:25:04+00:002019-11-27T10:25:04+00:00Reading 0-1 Leeds United: Player Ratings
<figure>
<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rpwod2L4-Mt8ideMJ_q2OwN0S0Y=/0x0:3696x2464/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65783315/1190256420.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A fine defensive show, but the attack had little to show as Reading were edged out by Leeds at the Mad Stad. </p> <h3 id="BDGop5"><strong>Rafael: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="Fpci8e">Not that troubled by a Leeds United side that didn’t put many shots on target, and I can’t really fault him for the goal. A few moments where I thought he could have been more dominant in his area, such as punching a cross when he could have caught it, but no major worries.</p>
<h3 id="W2PIns"><strong>Chris Gunter: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="KkQnI6">A solid return to first-team action for the Welshman, who didn’t look at all out of place in Reading’s very defensive back five. Generally solid defensively, and to my memory wasn’t exposed as he has been previously, but he gets marked down for a lack of attacking impact. </p>
<p id="6OUW6u">Beyond a nice first-half cross that almost found Pucas, he didn’t offer enough in the final third. That wasn’t really going to be the focus of his evening (defensive safety first), but you still want more from your wingback. </p>
<p id="E2XTkH">In this regard, Reading badly missed Andy Yiadom’s dynamism and willingness to charge hell for leather up the pitch, but overall Gunter certainly did enough to show that he’s a valuable option this season. </p>
<h3 id="hgEmTj"><strong>Matt Miazga: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="rPByZ4">As with the other centre backs, he had a very solid evening, keeping it tight at the back without giving much away. I haven’t put them above a 7/10 due to Leeds generally not offering much cutting edge in the final third. </p>
<h3 id="Phovhg"><strong>Michael Morrison: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="XNJxX1">See Miazga. Probably should have done better with a second-half chance though when the ball fell to him from a free kick, but he slashed at it and blazed the ball well over the bar. </p>
<h3 id="1TUWD5"><strong>Liam Moore: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="kIURzZ">See the other two defenders. When there’s not much to say about defenders bar ‘they defended what came at them really well’, that’s always a good sign. A lack of major errors or worries says a lot in its own regard. </p>
<h3 id="ss5SLt"><strong>Omar Richards: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="9SJZnv">Largely the same as Gunter, although he picked up a yellow card in the first half for a tactical foul to prevent a counter. He’s looked more confident in other games though, particularly going forwards. Cut out a Leeds chance early on in the second half with a well-timed tackle after it looked like they’d broken through. </p>
<h3 id="dHuU8t"><strong>Andy Rinomhota: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="JRE7XN">An energetic, combative performance in the middle of the park, Rino covered the defence well from his now-regular role as a destroyer at the base of midfield. Although he had a few chances to drive up the pitch with the ball as he likes to, he was generally restricted to defensive duties. </p>
<p id="Pnpjkt">Brushed off a second-half injury (at time of writing I don’t know what it was, but it was minor) to get almost all the game before being replaced by Garath McCleary. Jeered by the visiting supporters for being a “soft southern bastard” despite being born in Leeds. </p>
<h3 id="ql7o1c"><strong>John Swift: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="P5Vpup">Generally looked comfortable on the ball and had some great touches, but was also guilty of the odd sloppy pass and overall didn’t create enough. Then again, against one of the best sides in the division it was always a tall order for him to do that. A mixed bag of set pieces, with one (a free kick from far out parried away by the goalie) directly preceding the Leeds break that won the game. </p>
<h3 id="O07miT"><strong>Ovie Ejaria: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="nKzYIW">As with the other midfielders, he had to be more restrained offensively, but he still showed some absolutely magical moments on the ball that are by now a trademark of his game. In the first half he danced past a defender or two to break into the box, and repeated the trick in the second.</p>
<p id="FKWX1n">Although that’s enough to push him up to a 7/10, with Ejaria making a good contribution in the midfield, I still want to see more end product in the final third seeing as he’s now generally the third-highest player on the pitch. He’ll get there though. </p>
<h3 id="9oAtl8"><strong>George Puscas: 5</strong></h3>
<p id="ne1s7w">Although he worked hard, for me he didn’t get into the game well enough. Had some loose touches more often than he would have liked when trying to hold the ball up, and didn’t do much in the final third. One moment in the second half summed his evening up: getting in down the right, taking on a defender from wide, but putting a wild cross out for a goal kick. </p>
<p id="ID9uTP">His finishing gets a lot of criticism, but for me his all-round game needs plenty of work too. To be fair though, that was more exposed in a game when he was playing deeper as the support act to Meite - himself typically the focal point. That withdrawn role isn’t to Puscas’ strength, as he’s generally better at getting in behind, or at least trying to run at a defence. </p>
<h3 id="AYEi73"><strong>Yakou Meite: 5</strong></h3>
<p id="TLASqL">Again, he worked hard, and that shouldn’t go unnoted on an evening when Reading really needed work rate in Sam Baldock’s absence. Winning a corner out of nothing to kickstart a bright spell for Reading in the first half springs to mind. </p>
<p id="OpiN4c">But offensively he couldn’t get into the game well enough as Reading’s often lone striker. His hold-up play was poor - OK at times but generally not enough to bring other teammates into the game. </p>
<p id="XVw3HK">For me he’s not a classic centre forward as he lacks the technical ability, but on nights like this he still needs to be judged on what he made happen for the team, and that was minimal. </p>
<h2 id="jW2iUt"><strong>Subs</strong></h2>
<h3 id="uqqmMz"><strong>Lucas Boye: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="lOqCfj">Looked bright in the final third without creating much. Linked up well with Ejaria in his role playing off Meite. Probably worth starting on Saturday given the lack of impact from Puscas and Meite recently. </p>
<h3 id="M5cF5o"><strong>Danny Loader: N/A</strong></h3>
<p id="V4dnGi">Not enough to make an impact after coming on on the 86th minute.</p>
<h3 id="KrRYvc"><strong>Garath McCleary: N/A</strong></h3>
<p id="W5erJq">Ditto Loader, having got a matter of seconds at the end of the game. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="SXMMEU">
<h3 id="lVZz55"><strong>Average: 6.25</strong></h3>
<p id="ihj4nv"><em>Who was your man of the match? Vote below or through this </em><a href="https://linkto.run/p/YF2XZ30N"><em>link</em></a><em>. </em></p>
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https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/27/20985155/reading-fc-0-1-leeds-united-player-ratings-royalsBucksRoyal2019-11-26T22:04:34+00:002019-11-26T22:04:34+00:00Quick Takes: Nothing To Be Ashamed Of...
<figure>
<img alt="Reading v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KNgxaERvppNk6HLC8EpEGJwTQgc=/0x0:3163x2109/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65779763/1190245087.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Absolutely nothing.</p> <h3 id="aiJkTd"><strong>Brian McDermott Appreciation Player of the Game</strong></h3>
<p id="IhH4Sm">Andy Rinomhota, such a solid job tonight. The midfield trio actually all had a huge role to play. Andy goes unnoticed more often than not but he connects the play beautifully and has such an imperative role at the back that would almost only be noticed if he was missing. Well done boy. </p>
<h3 id="wYfohP"><strong>Key Plays</strong></h3>
<p id="J7nmyt">4’ - Yak breaks down the right (god sometimes you forget how POWERFUL this man is!) and feeds the ball towards Puscas but just a yard too far out of reach. Good rebound after some early Leeds pressure.</p>
<p id="CenJy2">27’ - Ovie did an Ovie and twisted the defenders to the ground...final ball was a bit of a hit and hope. Clearance. This cagey affair goes on...</p>
<p id="8PnjWD">39’ - Reading still in this, could you ask for much more...?</p>
<p id="9O6Wyc">40’ - Corner whipped in by Swifty and Yak on the end of it with POWER, right at the keeper...</p>
<p id="7ujbTT">45’ - Half time, Leeds dominated possession. Half was fairly dire...you take that though...Also for a midweek game, big up the 1871!</p>
<p id="PIOiHv">46’ - Early attack from Leeds, amounts to little...you toke that though...</p>
<p id="oFZC7N">57’ - Leeds chance, Bamford, sort of, meh, but not really.... sums up the game so far. </p>
<p id="s89i14">You take that though? Against this side? You take that...</p>
<p id="PpeYkj">62’ - Leeds. DALLAS. CROSSBAR. IT’S COMING. IT. HASN’T. COME. YET.</p>
<p id="cBwyTQ">67’ - Free-kick, scramble!!!! Morrison over the bar! Phillips with the block. “Leeds Local Saves Day”.</p>
<p id="2kxab7">...Weird playoff feel here... Remember Fulham?</p>
<p id="FrBpx0">87’ - Swift free-kick, blocked, Leeds break, Down the wing...whipped in a cross, Harrison on the end of it... heartbreaker.</p>
<p id="BMAz6l">Absolute. Heartbreaker. </p>
<p id="EQpZ40">Full-time’ - Brutal. </p>
<h3 id="q8h3U9"><strong>Other notes</strong></h3>
<p id="0Xu4qM">Would love to know how much the Premier League (and Liverpool) values Ovie at this point...because yikes...talk about the Bargain Bucket.</p>
<p id="bstqpi">Puscas losing the ball in our own half, looking lacklustre up front. Does this guy genuinely want to be here anymore...? So much potential, so sad to see. Remember Cardiff...</p>
<p id="2x79zJ">That broke my heart. </p>
<p id="920mjN">This team has so much fight. Do you give Bowen the extension now...?</p>
<p id="8tJRCY">That was nothing to be ashamed of. </p>
<h3 id="Ri9kc8"><strong>Tunes</strong></h3>
<div id="PqSKXT"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1k8craCGpgs?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/26/20984541/quick-takes-nothing-to-be-ashamed-of-reading-fc-0-1-leeds-unitedKuz13132019-11-26T12:55:20+00:002019-11-26T12:55:20+00:00Tactics Preview: Versatile Leeds United In Excellent Form
<figure>
<img alt="Leeds United v Blackburn Rovers - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/H8eg_1RQ2KXTxgWU9mjap2tlxQ8=/0x0:2169x1446/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65774939/1186533732.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by George Wood/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It will be another tough test for Reading this evening. </p> <p id="Rx0NdS">Leeds United sit in second place in the Championship table with 10 wins to their name already this season. With only 10 goals conceded, United have the best defence in the league and in Marcelo Bielsa, one of the best managers too. Having not lost in over two months, four wins and two draws in their last six games have enabled Leeds to be able to sit in the automatic promotion places ahead of Tuesday night’s game. </p>
<p id="imYbtM">That early October defeat at Millwall has been the only times this season that Leeds have conceded more than one goal in a game, so the Royals will need to keep it tight at the back in order to have a chance of getting anything from the game. Leeds are not a side who thrash teams, but consistently averaging around at least 60% possession and firing off shot after shot has singled them out as a team who can camp in the opposition’s half and dominate the game.</p>
<p id="3UEJDI">Leeds are able to play in a variety of different formations, lining up in a 3-4-3, 3-3-3-1 and 4-1-4-1 in their last four games alone. With on loan Brighton defender Ben White a fixture in central defence alongside either right back Gaetano Berardi or Liam Cooper (or right-back Luke Ayling when in a three), Leeds have seamlessly transitioned between their different systems this season. This versatility is a huge asset to United, with winger Stuart Dallas usually playing at full-back or wing-back. The two full/wing-backs also have a position quite high up the pitch, looking to overload the opposition’s full backs, along with widemen Helder Costa and Jack Harrison, or even playmaker Pablo Hernandez. Hernandez is more prone to dropping into the middle with Harrison and Costa more natural wide players, and his movement inside can often confuse opposition defenders.</p>
<p id="UbQaLv">In midfield, Kalvin Phillips drops in between the centre-backs to pick up the ball and spray it around the pitch, often looking to pick out an attacking full-back or a midfield runner. Leeds’s midfield men like to use the space created by the striker’s movement off the ball, usually one of Patrick Bamford or Eddie Nketiah.</p>
<p id="sQUqjN">Leeds enjoy a high press from the front in order to win the ball back quickly, so the Royals will need to take a no nonsense approach at the back when not trying to beat the intense press. With Sam Baldock potentially out injured, Lucas Boye may provide a wise option in Reading’s own frontline with the Royals hopefully looking to continue their own high energy approach to games.</p>
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https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2019/11/26/20983528/tactics-preview-reading-fc-leeds-united-efl-championship-royalsjamiewykes