A crowd of 17,013 witnessed Reading's 3-1 win over Blackpool, the largest crowd of the season so far.

Over 5,000 tickets were snapped up by local schools and clubs, the third such fixture of the season, contributing to a carnival-like atmosphere at the SCL Stadium.

Blackpool's travelling contingent were squeezed into a corner allowing 'Club 1871' to open an extra block in the south stand.

Wins over Coventry City and Huddersfield Town, the previous two matches with tickets for schools and clubs, attracted 15,000 and 16,000 respectively.

Overall it was the third highest crowd since the return from the Covid-19 lock-out, and the highest crowd since over 19,000 attended the Royals' 2-1 defeat to Cardiff City in April 2022.

Almost 23,000 turned out for the 150th anniversay fixture in February 2022, a 3-2 defeat to Coventry City.

However, the celebration was marred by protest and pitch invasions as the club were in a seven match losing streak and fan patience was wearing thin.

Speaking on the crowd, manager Paul Ince said: "The kids can come every game. Whenever they come, we win!"