Bluebirds end Royals' run

Sportsdesk • Published 2 Jan 2012 17:30 0 Comments

Cardiff City 3 - 1 Reading

READING'S four-match winning streak came to a disappointing end after a 3-1 defeat at promotion-rivals Cardiff City on Monday.

Royals were 3-0 down by the 37th minute before skipper Jobi McAnuff pulled one back against his old club on the stroke of half-time.

But hopes of a fightback were dashed by a well-drilled Bluebirds outfit who secured their second win over Reading this season following their 2-1 victory at Madejski Stadium in November.

Brian McDermott's men were unlucky to go behind in the 13th minute when Joe Mason appeared to handle the ball before firing past Adam Federici.

Federici also looked like he was impeded six minutes later when he came to collect a corner allowing Aron Gunnarsson to head City into a 2-0 lead.

Kenny Miller then made it 3-0 with a neat finish 37 minutes, only for McAnuff's well-taken goal at the end of the half to raise Royals' spirits.

Sadly, the visitors failed to capitalise on that lifeline and needed a string of fine saves from Adam Federici to prevent Cardiff from netting a fourth.

Reading remain fifth in the Championship table and McDermott admitted they got what they deserved in south Wales, despite some poor decisions made by referee Chris Foy, particulary in the build-up to Mason's opening goal.

"It was certainly handball but the referee didn't see it, nor did he see the foul on our goalkeeper for their second one. That was unfortunate but we weren't anywhere near our best on the day and we hold our hands up to that. You can't hide behind refereeing decisions.

"I have no fear of losing games, my only fear is not performing and I felt we didn't perform to the level I know we are capable of."

Royals turn their attentions to the FA Cup next Saturday when they host Stevenage in a third round tie at Madejski Stadium (3pm ko).

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This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 02 Jan 12

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