Breaking news:READING FC got off the mark with their first league victory of the season as they earned a home win over Selsey.

Breaking news:READING FC got off the mark with their first league victory of the season as they earned a home win over Selsey

 

Reading FC secured their first league victory of the 2024/2025 season with a well-earned 2-0 home win against Selsey FC. The win, which came at the Madejski Stadium on a crisp January afternoon, lifted spirits around the club after a challenging start to the campaign. The Royals had gone several weeks without a win, leaving fans anxious for a breakthrough. This victory not only provided much-needed points but also restored confidence in the squad’s ability to compete in a highly competitive league.

From the outset, Reading FC looked to assert their dominance over Selsey, who had been struggling in the lower half of the table. The Royals pressed high, forcing their opponents into defensive errors early in the match. It didn’t take long for Reading to break the deadlock. In the 23rd minute, a well-placed cross from winger Adam Chapman found striker Ethan Brown in the box. Brown, who has been a standout performer for Reading this season, calmly slotted the ball past Selsey’s goalkeeper to give the home side a deserved lead.

Selsey, despite the setback, tried to find a response. However, they were unable to break down Reading’s solid defense, led by captain Ben Haines, who was particularly impressive at the back. The Royals’ midfield controlled the tempo of the game, with Tommy Doyle pulling the strings in the center and providing numerous key passes to set up attacking opportunities.

As the second half progressed, Reading continued to dominate possession but was unable to find a second goal immediately. Selsey began to show signs of fatigue and struggled to get any meaningful shots on goal. The pressure from Reading’s attack eventually told in the 68th minute, when midfielder Ryan Cooper was brought down just outside the penalty area. The resulting free kick was taken by Reading’s star player, Ethan Brown, who delivered a brilliant curling shot into the top corner, leaving the Selsey goalkeeper with no chance.

The 2-0 scoreline gave Reading a comfortable cushion for the remainder of the match. Selsey had a few late attempts to salvage something from the game, but none of their efforts tested Reading’s goalkeeper, Jack Stafford, who was rarely called into action. The Royals’ defense stood firm, and the game ended with the home side celebrating a much-needed three points.

This victory was crucial for Reading FC, who had been languishing near the bottom of the table after a series of disappointing results. Head coach David Cox was visibly relieved at the final whistle, acknowledging that the team had worked hard for this result. “It’s been a tough start to the season for us, but this win will give us the confidence to push on,” Cox said in his post-match interview. “The players showed resilience and determination today, and I’m proud of their efforts.”

Fans were equally delighted with the win, with many taking to social media to express their joy. “It’s about time we got the win we deserved,” one supporter tweeted. “This is a step in the right direction.”

With the first league win under their belt, Reading FC will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their upcoming matches. The win also signals a potential turning point in their season, with the team now eager to climb up the table and challenge for a higher finish. As the players and fans celebrate, there is a renewed sense of optimism around the club, knowing that better days may lie ahead.