How they rated

5 JOE LUMLEY

Made a decent save at his near post in the opening exchanges. Could not have done a lot with the first Brighton goal.

6 ANDY YIADOM

Worked hard for the team, bringing energy in the periods where Reading were chasing shadows.

6 TOM MCINTYRE

Often found himself getting drawn out wide to support Hoilett. By the end, was putting his foot in at crucial moments.

6 SAM HUTCHINSON

Was pulled from pillar to post putting out fires at the heart of defence. Was assured on the ball in a typically committed performance.

6 TOM HOLMES

The newly-appointed vicecaptain initially struggled to contain Welbec. Adjusted well and looked comfortable by the end.

5 JUNIOR HOILETT

Struggled to contain Tariq Lamptey. Provided an outlet on the left side in possession, forcing an important save out of Jason Steele.

4 TYRESE FORNAH

The game seemed to pass him by. Got caught out by the fluidity of Brighton’s central players, often on the wrong side of his opponent.

5 JEFF HENDRICK

Grew into the game. Unable to combat Brighton’s stranglehold. Found his way out of several tight situations with good footwork.

4 OVIE EJARIA

A couple of loose passes gave Brighton possession in dangerous positions. To his credit, did not let his head drop and worked hard

5 TOM INCE

Won the penalty for Reading’s goal. Started on the right side of midfield four before it went to a three.

7 YAKOU MEITE

Did not get any joy in the lone striker role, losing the aerial battle with Lewis Dunk. Came into his own when Joao entered the fray.

6 LUCAS JOAO

His introduction changed the game, with Reading playing more balls into the channel and Brighton making wholesale changes.

6 NESTA GUINESS-WALKER

Once again showed a desire to get forward, whipping some decent crosses in from the left side.

SUBS

Bouzanis (GK), Leavy,

Clarke