It's a game most Reading fans have consigned to distant memory. 

Both Reading and Birmingham City were on the verge of an instantaneous return to the Premier League in 2009.

Reading came into the promotion showdown knowing that they could have snatched second place if they had beaten Birmingham and other results went their way.

Unfortunately for the Royals it wasn't to be. Steve Coppell's side fell to a 2-1 defeat at the Madejski, which in turn meant that Birmignham City secured their return to the top flight.

Keith Fahey gave the visitors the lead that day in the 19th minute, after his tame shot squirmed underneath Marcus Hahnemann to the delight of the visiting fans.

Reading had struggled at home in the second half of the season, having failed to win a the Madejski since late January. 

This frustration continued after falling behind as Reading's forward line of Stephen Hunt, Jimmy Kebe, Dave Kitson and Shane Long failed to challenge Birmingham keeper Maik Taylor.

The Blues then dealt Reading's promotion hopes another cruel blow, with Kevin Phillips eluding the offside trap and finishing in typical, composed fashion. 

Substitute Marek Matejovsky gave Reading hope, cutting inside and showing his teammates what they'd been missing - finishing with composure and confidence.

Although Reading piled on the pressure, Birmingham City managed to survive late scares and penalty appeals and came out victorious, securing their Premier League return.

Reading were forced into the lottery of the play-offs and fell at the semi final stage to eventual winners Burnley.