The most significant outcome of the match was that Watford dropped two points. With closest rivals Sheffield United losing at Coventry, and Leeds held to a draw at home to Norwich, Reading took a huge step towards the Premiership even though they failed to win.

Watford looked as if they were content to take a point and just about deserved it although Reading created far more clear cut chances. The Royals dominated the game for long spells, but it was the sort of game where Little was needed to open up a very well organised and disciplined Watford defence. Watford never really looked like breaking down Reading's defence and few attempts on goal most of which were woeful long range efforts.

Convey and Oster had chances in the early stages of the game but their reluctance to shoot meant the chances were not converted. Sonko almost got on the end of a cross which was eventually hacked off the line. Kitson also delayed his shot when in a good position, carried the ball wide and then made a hash of his shot. Doyle managed to get behind the defence and appeared to be fouled but this referee who was fussy and missed many obvious fouls was unmoved by the appeals. Kitson slipped the ball past the keeper in the closing minutes of the first half and Doyle followed up only to see his shot from an acute angle blocked on the line. Reading should have gone in at half time with at least a one goal lead.

Watford enjoyed more possession in the second half with Henderson battering away at the Royals defence, but basically they lacked any real quality in their attacking play. They competed well but they were not the best footballing side I've seen visit the Madjeski this season. Oster began well but the fans eventually lost patience with him. Steve Coppell defended him in his post match interview with some justification. He is good on the ball but he often tries to over complicate things when a simple more direct pass would be more effective. Gunnarsson on the other hand once more demonstrated why I would select him ahead of Sidwell. His passing and strength in possession were crucial in enabling Reading to control the game in midfield today. Shorey on occasions today was superb on the ball. His only flaw is his reluctance to shoot when his direct running and outstanding ball control takes him into the penalty area.

At no point in today's game did Reading look in trouble. Even though their finishing was not sharp as usual they looked confident and more likely to win. Watford worked hard but looked wary of Reading's attacking potential. No team can really concentrate on attack with Doyle and Convey always likely to pounce on the break. With Little and Sidwell coming back we can now look forward to the last lap of a magnificent season which must surely include not only promotion but the Championship title. I keep looking at the league table on Teletext because I still can't believe how far ahead we are!
John Wells