Reading’s dream of a dramatic Premiership return hung in the balance last light as they were comfortably beaten by Birmingham on a day that promised high drama, and delivered nothing. Reading had to win and hope Neil Warlock’s Crystal Palace could deny Sheff United victory at Selhurst Park. Palace did their bit by drawing 0-0, bur Reading were unable create enough, or be positive enough, to claim the victory required. Reading now face a highly motivated, and in form Burnley next Saturday and Tuesday as they attempt to book a dream date at Wembley.I went to Di’s afterwards, she was late so I had a pint down at the Tally Ho where I drowned my sorrows with some of Diane’s friends who are Southampton fans, who let’s face it, have a lot more problems than Reading (relegation and a 10 point deduction next year). The problem was they had run out of Ringwood bitter (3.5%) so I had to drink Red Thumper (5.5%). Not a good idea, I was pissed as a fart. good fun though.

Birmingham fans enjoy the sunshine

Reading and Birmingham scrap it out

A sobbing young Royal comforted by Dad afterwards

Reading fans stream home dejected