Reading heads still not down

Everton took the points against Reading thanks to a 62nd minute goal from Phil Jagielka. Reading had played purposefully and with plenty of heart but perhaps during this particular match they lacked that little bit of luck to steal the points. Everton did not disgrace Reading but then a 1-0 defeat would be hard to describe as a disgrace in most contexts.

Reading’s defeat and Birmingham City’s draw at West Ham meant that Reading slipped into the bottom three for the first time this season. The pessimists will probably dismiss the fact that there are still 39 points up for grabs. Indeed the fact that Reading now occupies the relegation zone may be seen by some as the sign to give up hope. However, that is simply not the case. In fact Reading’s performance against fourth place Everton was sprinkled with positive performances that suggest that Reading will do more than just dodge the trap door out of the top flight.

Stephen Hunt, who was described as the Bogeyman in the Everton programme, put in another brilliant performance. Hunt forged runs all over the park and was a definite hindrance to Everton. His free kick made Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard earn his money. Any player that gets regularly booed by the opposition fans must be doing something right. Let’s face it players who get regular stick from opposition supporters, mainly get abuse because they are seen as a threat. Hunt is more than a mere threat; he is a class act. Hunt’s consistent performance at Goodison Park deserved more. The likes of Dave Kitson, Shane Long and Kevin Doyle all had opportunities thanks to Hunt’s work. With a change of fortune a goal will come.

James Harper, another character whose effervescent personality will be vital to the closing stages off the season, was painfully unlucky not to score. The Reading midfield man hit the outside of the post as Reading searched for an equaliser. Harper though does have that infectious tendency to keep bubbling along as each game progresses. An energetic player, Harper never stops moving. Despite the disappointment of the match and hitting the post, Harper never showed anything other than the positive energy that has always emanated from his football style.

Nicky Shorey, who might be smarting from his recent omission from Fabio Capello’s first England squad, showed a desire to bounce back. The full back’s performance matched that of Hunt’s with consistent running, decent covering all along the flank and a hunger to succeed. Shorey never stopped running, but neither did his full back partner Graeme Murty. Murty, the Reading captain, has a heart as big as a house. Every game now will seem difficult and every point priceless, but the cajoling and encouragement from Scottish international Murty will be equally priceless.

Sat by the touch-line I got to see the faces of all the Reading players up close as the match progress and particularly in the second half. The looks from the players were all interesting and focused. The most consistent facial expression I could ascertain was one of determination. Indeed it never seemed to disappear or waver. That attitude will be crucial in the coming games. There is no reason to believe that it will go.

Perhaps this sounds like the biased ramblings of a naïve sycophant. And perhaps it is. After Reading’s defeat at home to Bolton Wanderers I urged everyone not to give in. The message here is fundamentally the same. Everton knew they had a game on yesterday and in their pursuit for Champions League football they were nearly tripped up by a side at the other end of the table. Perhaps that should be the tact of the closing message here. Plenty of football is still to be played and plenty of nerves may become frayed as some sides battle for survival and some for European places. Reading is due a change of luck now and has to face teams at either end of the table. Don’t be surprised if they pull off a shock or two. When they do the timing could be impeccable.

By Stuart Croucher.