Nick has the knack

NICK POWELL’S stoppage-time header rescued Stoke after a dozy first half.

They woke up after the interval and Powell (above, centre) extended their unbeaten run to five games – but they dropped a point closer to the bottom three thanks to results elsewhere.

Boss Michael O’neill took his place in the dugout after self-isolating earlier this month following a positive test for coronavirus, but would not have enjoyed the early stages as Reading went ahead after only seven minutes when Lucas Jaoa flicked Yakou Meite’s near-post cross right-footed past Jack Butland.

Stoke’s Tom Ince found space in the area only to half-volley at Rafael

Cabral, while Michael Olise and Joao went close for the hosts.

O’neill sent on James Mcclean for the second half and he forced Liam Moore to clear a dangerous cross-shot, but Reading’s John Swift hit the bar with a free-kick.

The Potters’ Tyrese Campbell was also denied by the woodwork before Powell nodded in from close range after James Chester had headed back Lasse Sorensen’s corner.

“It was good to be back with the players,” said O’neill. “I think we deserved something from the game.

“When we beat Hull 5-1 before the break I think people had a false sense of security. Every point will be vital.”

Reading boss Mark Bowen admitted his side were punished for switching off.

He said: “I thought we played well for long periods, but our decision-making could have been better. Lack of concentration at a vital time cost us.”

READING

STOKE