READING FC Under 18s clinched their second victory in a row in the Under 18 Premier League with a 2-1 win over in-form West Ham at Hogwood Park.

David Dodds’ youngsters showed their patience before taking the lead just before the interval.

Adam Liddle collected a Khalid Simmo cross before firing home with a deflected shot.

The lead was shortlived as the Hammers levelled early in the second half to make it 1-1.

But Reading dug deep and regained the lead soon after, this time Simmo finding the net from Jack Nolan’s assist.

The home side went close to adding a third late on when Charlie Lawrence hit the woodwork.

And they also defended resolutely in the closing staged as the Hammers pushed for an equaliser that never came.

Royals’ promotion-winning midfielder Mikele Leigertwood and Ryan Williams were in charge of Royals on the day.

And Dodds hailing the performance of his young players.

“We started quite slowly, they were on top for the first 20 minutes but we defended well,” explained Dodds.

“We went ahead probably against the run of play, but it settled us down and we started to play a bit and get a little bit more.

“We had some good situations early in the second half with some good crosses and half-chances, but West Ham equalised to make it one each.

“It was quite an equal game after that, but then Khalid Simmo scored.”

He added: “We defended well when we were under pressure. West Ham had been on a run of several wins, scoring against good teams and not conceding, so I was really pleased with the performance.”

Reading have two more matches this season starting with a trip to Aston Villa this Saturday.

“We’ve played very young teams this year, having moved a full team up to the Under-23s,” continued Dodds.

“The young lads have had a bit of continuity recently with a mix of experience.

“It’s been a good balance and they have built some understanding.”

Reading U18s: J.Andresson, Wilson, Philby, Balogun (Brooking 61), Nditi, Buchanan (Faniyan 73), Simmo, Omolabi, Liddle, Lawrence, Nolan. Subs: Roberts, Moore, Lawless.