An Oxfordshire-resident believes he was refused entry to a Reading FC match because he was presumed to be an away supporter.

On Saturday, April 16, the Royals came from three goals down to draw 4-4 with Swansea City, but Dr Gareth Thomas failed to see the match as he was not let in.

The 81-year-old from Abingdon was looking forward to attending at the SCL Stadium with his brother.

 

READ MORE: Reading FC come from three down to draw with Swansea City

 

His 76-year-old sibling fancied watching from the away end, where 2,500 tickets had already sold out.

However, after attempting to buy a ticket elsewhere in the stadium instead, they were refused and met with less-than-helpful match day stewards.

Speaking to the Reading Chronicle, Dr Thomas said: “They assumed we were Swansea fans, when we have no allegiance to Swansea. I was disgusted by the way we were treated.

“I understand that they have rules which they have tightened, but surely, they could have used a little discretion. It was totally dispirited.”

“My brother wanted to sit with the Swansea fans, and they refused to sell us tickets. We then persuaded Reading fans to buy two tickets on our behalf, which they did.

“But when we tried to get entry, we were confronted by the stewards who were very rude and barred us from entry.

“It was unfortunate to say the least.”

 

READ MORE: Reading FC defender reflects on Easter weekend goals

 

In response to the complaint, Reading Football Club sent the following to Dr Thomas:

"Thank you for your email and we appreciate your frustration and disappointment at not being able to enter the stadium and watch the match on Easter Sunday.

"Unfortunately, as I am sure you are aware, the full allocation of visiting supporter tickets was sold in advance of the fixture, and this was publicised by both clubs. When the visiting supporter allocation is sold out, matchday-issued tickets for our home fixtures are only sold to supporters with previous purchase history at the club in an attempt to avoid visiting supporters purchasing tickets in the home areas of the stadium.

"Upon looking at your account, there is no previous purchase history of games played at the Select Car Leasing Stadium not involving Swansea City to verify that you are a home supporter.

"Selling tickets to visiting supporters within home sections of the stadium is against our ground regulations, as it is for football stadia up and down the country. And, while it may be frustrating for some, sadly it is not feasible or appropriate for our matchday staff to make personal judgements or issue any level of discretion in these situations.

"We have a duty of care to all our supporters- including yourself and your brother- whose safety and security we would rightly become responsible for once you have entered the stadium bowl.

"We hope you understand the club's actions and we look forward to welcoming you both to the Select Car Leasing Stadium at a future match."