Reading FC boss Mark Bowen was left frustrated after his side fell short in a seven-goal thriler at Ewood Park.

Sam Gallagher got the last goal in a topsy-turvy affair which ultimated ended in a 4-3 defeat for Reading.

Sam Baldock and Yakou Meite got Reading back to 3-3 with a quick fire double, and it looked as if it'd be Reading who'd go on to take all three points as the second half went on.

But, the late header from Sam Gallagher made it two consecutive defeats for Reading.

Bowen was frustrated by the focus of his team speaking after the game.

"We started slowly and we didn't have the intensity right at the start.

"We conceded two goals that were avoidable with more communication. We had to change things and get back into it.

"For periods I thought we were on top and then we concede a sloppy goal.

"At 3-3, I thought if there was going to be any winner it'd be us - but then we don't deal with the danger and we don't clear our lines.

"There was a number of errors the fourth goal. We let an easy cross in the box and Sam Gallagher had a free header into the net.

"it is individuals making mistakes."

The manager was pleased with the impact of his second-half substitutes.

"Liam Moore came on and did well. Sam Baldock came on and had a real influence on the game which is what I want.

"They have to be ready to make a difference and contribute and that's what they did today.

"It is all you can ask for."

Bowen confirmed he is unsure of the severity of the injury to Tom Mcintyre, who Liam Moore replaced.

Bowen admitted that the uncertainty surrounding the future of a number of players has hindhered his side in recent weeks.

"The mind of a professional player is a complicated thing.

"If they know they wont be here next year, some players they might have made their mind up to change. I think in hindsight it has effected us.

"I'm very clear in my mind which way we need to go and which way we will go."