Hull 2-1 Reading – Midfield changes reap rewards

As expected with the absence of Michael Dawson City played Maguire and Davies together in defence. The other change was Hernandez replacing the out of sorts Diame.

As usual City began tentatively and Reading took full advantage. McGregor had to save 2 shots in the first 5 minutes. City’s midfield was clearly second best and it was no surprise in the 30 the minute when Blackman finished off a fine passing move, being wide on the left and comprehensively beating McGregor.

City huffed and puffed to halftime and Hernandez was inches away from heading an equaliser. Reading had the last say however with Blackman audaciously hitting the bar from a free kick 15 metres out with McGregor beaten.

HT Hull City 0-1 Reading

In the second half City started much more brightly although they still backed off from challenges allowing Reading to play.

On the hour Reading should have gone two up when McShane of all people just missed connecting with a free kick.

City finally equalised in the 61st minute with a messy goal. Clucas’s persistence in the penalty area created a simple tap in for Hernandez.

Steve Bruce then made the changes that the game demanded with Snodgrass and Maloney coming on. Snodgrass replaced Clucas with good grace but when Maloney replaced Akpom the petulant youngster flew into a strop. He needs to learn a little humility as Hernandez did when he was replaced by Diomande a couple of minutes from time.

Reading were unfortunate to lose a player just before the end and went down to 10 men. City took full advantage when Livermore lashed a ball in for the winner. It was a long 7 minutes of injury time but City hung on for a win they hardly deserved.

Tony Atkin
16.12.15.