Reading boss Veljko Paunovic urged his team to score more goals after a ‘predictable’ attacking display saw the Royals fall 3-1 to table-topping Brentford. 

Two late goals sealed the win for the Bees after what was a fairly even contest between the two promotion-chasing sides.

Reading took the lead in the first half through a Lucas Joao penalty but Brentford equalised soon after and took home all three points with goals in the 86th and 88th minutes from Josh Da Silva and Ivan Toney respectively. 

The Royals created some good opportunities through Michael Olise and Josh Laurent in the first half but failed to threaten Brentford goalkeeper David Raya in the second 45. 

And Reading FC boss Veljko Paunovic lamented the lack of chances his side created.

Speaking after the game, he said: ‘'It was a  fantastic game and a solid performance up until the second goal. 

‘We have to score more goals. It's very important against top teams. 

‘We had some good opportunities but we were too predictable.'

READ MORE: Player ratings -- Morrison unlucky to be on the losing side

Despite the loss, which leaves the Royals in fifth trailing second place by seven points, the manager was open-minded about his team’s automatic promotion chances. 

He said: ‘I’m very proud of our guys.

‘At this point, we have to look to stay in the top six. 

‘When we get closer to the end we will adjust our goals.'

The Royals went into the top-of-the-table clash without star players John Swift or Yakou Meite. 

Paunovic said it was ‘very disappointing’ to have lost both players following Saturday’s goalless draw with Stoke.

READ MORE: Reading fall to late surge from Brentford in disappointing night for the Royals

He continued: ‘They are very important for our team. 

‘They are professionals who can change our game.'

Forward Meite will be assessed weekly, whereas midfielder Swift could return sooner if a scan shows good signs tomorrow (February 9). 

And captain Liam Moore and striker George Puscas could also be back soon, with both players expected to return in the next few weeks. 

Brentford went top-of-the-table with their win and Paunovic was full of praise for the West London side. 

He said: ‘They are on an amazing run. 

‘We tried to be the spoilers and interrupt that. It was a great challenge and we learned a lot about ourselves.' 

Brentford boss returned the compliments, labelling Reading a ‘top team’ and ‘one of the best’ his side had faced this season. 

The Royals will look to bounce back with a win at home to Millwall on Saturday, February 13.