Reading have progressed to the semi-final of the Berks and Bucks Senior Cup, with an Under-23 side beating Combined Counties outfit Burnham 2-0 at the 1878 Stadium.

The likes of Michael Stickland, Louie Holzman and Charlie Wellens- all with first-team experience- lined up in Buckinghamshire.

Strikes from Joe Barough and Jahmari Clarke was enough for victory, ensuring Noel Hunt's youngsters remain in the historic competition.

Clarke sprung into the limelight in November 2021 when his brace beat Birmingham City in the Championship, but the 20-year-old has not gone on to hit the heights many had hoped despite loans to Woking, Forest Green Rovers and Boreham Wood.

He has not featured in a squad under Ruben Selles but has become a regular at Under-21 level for Hunt.

Winners in 2022 against Slough Town, Marlow knocked the Young Royals out in the last four last season on penalties.

Bracknell Town are the reigning champions, winning 1-0 in last year's final.

Wycombe Wanderers and Maidenhead United, the two most successful clubs in this competition with more than 50 wins between them, have pulled out due to fixture congestion.

Reading now await the draw for the semi-final, with ties expected to take place in April.