Reading inflict rare defeat on Exeter City

The winning run for Exeter City has come to an end after a lacklustre first-half display was punished by Reading at St James Park.

Three straight victories had lifted the Grecians into a League One play-off spot but a sloppy start saw the visitors pinch possession in the opening minute, and Jayden Wareham accepted the gift to fire the Royals in front.

After six successive clean sheets, the goal stunned City into an unfamiliar display in the first half, as they struggled to find rhythm and cohesion in their play. Reading duly pounced on their hosts, Michael Craig fizzing a fine second into the Exeter net from 18 yards.

The Grecians were back to their exciting best after the break, Finland international Ilmari Niskanen reducing the deficit just before the hour when he finished a delicious cross from Jack McMillan.

City piled forward in search of an equaliser, Niskanen struck the inside of the post and further chances fell to McMillan, Kamari Doyle and Millenic Alli but Reading held on for the win.

Exeter manager Gary Caldwell told the club website: "We were sloppy, getting caught in the ball and Reading did exactly what we worked on all week, and we still weren't ready for it. 

"But the second half was outstanding and it's as good as we have played all season. We were aggressive and on the front foot, and we played through them at times. We had chance after chance and just couldn't get that second goal. We hit the post, it was bouncing everywhere.

"I really feel we deserved something from the game but that's football. We have to learn from the first half and continue the second half."