After a mixed performance against Southgate the week before, the Reading HC Men’s 1st Team were especially keen to take maximum points from their trip to Wimbledon.

It was always going to be a crunch match for both teams as they vie for Playoff places in the Premier Division. The Wimbledon squad had a wealth of international caps but from the first whistle this seemed to provide little reward on the pitch.

The youthful Reading squad blasted out the traps and immediately put the home team under pressure, with prolonged attacks from Tim Atkins, Max Heaver and Jack Whelan down the right-hand flank eventually setting up a short corner for the boys in blue. Up stepped Tom Carson who was right on the money and ruthlessly fired it through a flailing James Bailey’s legs to earn Reading a well deserved 1-0 lead.

With long periods of possession Reading pushed on with real discipline. Peter Scott, Jack Clee and Jonty Clarke continually asked questions of an experienced Wimbledon midfield and defensive, and were awarded a 2nd penalty corner of the game. Time for the old veteran Richard Mantell to have a go, and once again slotted a golden strike past Bailey to bank a 2-0 lead.

After the break an experienced Wimbledon team immediately pressed higher up the pitch on the Reading defensive line, and forced a number of last ditch tackles in front of the Reading goal.
The crowd were treated to a series of counter attacks from both teams. Reading first hitting the post and then missing chances in front of the Wimbledon net. Wimbledon responded with a number of quick skilful charges towards the Reading goal. Despite this, a well organised and tenacious Reading team defended with aplomb to deny the London team any breakthrough.

With 9 minutes remaining in the match, and Reading leading 2-0, the floodlights went out and in spite of the best efforts from all parties the lights were in no mood to turn back on again. As such, the TD called the end to the match.
A slightly disappointing end to a high quality match, however we remain hopeful that the result will stand at 2-0 Reading.

The three points have been awarded to Reading - But Wimbledon have the right to appeal.