Reading FC Match Report: 2024/2025 Season - FA Cup


READING 1 BURNLEY 3

Reading: L Wing (77)
Burnley: L Foster (71), Z Flemming (100), Z Flemming (109)

After Extra Time
Full time: Reading 1 Burnley 1

A team looking likely to be playing in the Premier League next season, having only lost two league games conceding only a miserly nine goals in twenty-six matches, was bound to prove difficult to overcome. Nevertheless, Reading must take credit, after a shaky start, for taking Burnley to extra time, before succumbing to two goals from in-form striker Zian Flemming this Third Round cup tie.

Playing with a lot of width, Burnley dominated possession from the start. Reading looked likely to concede in the opening fifteen minutes, and Burnley came close to scoring on several occasions. Kanu struggled with Koleosho's pace at left back as Reading generally struggled to cope with pace and movement of the Championship side. However, after Foster hitting the post, and missing the target with other presentable chances, Burnley found themselves having to repel some Reading attacks as Wing and Knibbs established a bit more control of the game in midfield.

There were encouraging signs for Reading when Burnley 'keeper Hladky elected to punch a ball in the box when not under any particular pressure and Burnley began to dive in conceding free-kicks in their own half. There were few further clear-cut chances before half time, the most notable attempt from Foster drew an excellent save from Button after thirty- eight minutes.

Reading started the second half with greater confidence taking the game to Burnley, and had Smith managed a cleaner strike when presented with a sight of goal by an astute pass from Dean in a crowded box, might have taken the lead after sixty-six minutes.

Burnley, almost against the run of play, took the lead after seventy-one minutes. Following a Burnley corner, Bauress was given far too much time and space outside the box to deliver a teasing cross. The Reading defence collectively failed to react, and Button was rooted to his line when the ball dropped to Foster who was able to finish unchallenged a couple of yards form goal.

There was a disappointing lack of reaction from the subdued Reading fans packed into the East Stand, but they were given hope when Savage rolled the ball to Wing about forty yards from goal to score a fortunate equaliser out of the blue. Although Wing struck the ball low, and with typical power and bend, Hladky inexcusably allowed the ball to squirm between his legs. It was an unexpected , but deserved, chance to get back into the game with extra time. The outcome of the tie was ultimately settled by the quality of the players coming of the bench. Substitute Flemming restored Burnley's lead with a clinical strike when picked out by Tresor with an excellent ball following some slick passing and movement on the right.

Reading are getting a raw deal from referees as far as penalties are concerned this season, and were once again denied a reasonable appeal for a penalty in stoppage time. The visitors secured their place in Round Four when once again Button was slow to react to a loose ball in the front of goal allowing Flemming to poke home his second goal.

It is always disappointing to be knocked out of the cup, but Reading competed well against a strong side today and the outcome of January transfer window is currently of far greater importance to everyone associated with Reading Football Club. The re-signing of Chem Campbell has given everyone a lift, and the mood amongst the squad remains positive and upbeat, which is a credit to the influence of Noel Hunt.

John Wells

This FA Cup game took place 36 days ago in the 2024/2025 season.