Reading Res 3 Watford Res 1

A late goal by Hungarian International, Tamas Priskin proved to be a scant consolation to the travelling Golden Boys after a brace by Reading's former Brentford striker, Stephen Hunt and a goal by Shaun Long.

With both teams picking strong line-ups a competitive contest was always on the cards and the visitor's soon fashioned the first real opportunity, the ever combative Al Bangura striking wood after 7 minutes with Graham Stack in the Reading goal beaten.

However, the hosts were in no mood to be dictated too and drew first blood just before the half hour when Hunt slotted home from the penalty spot following an infringement by a Watford defender.

The Berkshire outfit, buoyed the goal visibly grew in confidence and increased their advantage seven minutes later, Shane Long, who had appeared as a substitute in the Royals' televised victory over Manchester City on Monday evening, finishing off a fine move involving Hunt.

The second half saw the Golden Boys battling manfully to get back into the contest to no avail and with time running out Hunt grabbed his second and the home side's third with a close range finish.

There was just time for Priskin to get on the score sheet, glancing home an accurate cross by Anthony McNamee, but not nearly enough to alter the destination of the points.

So a disappointing result for Dick Bate's second string although it must be said Reading, with Hunt and Long in outstanding form, were impressive victors on the night.