Reading extended their impressive home record in League One with a commanding 4-1 victory over struggling Crawley Town at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
The Royals, who have now won five of their six home league matches this season, proved too strong for a Crawley side still searching for form.
Early Exchange of Goals Sets the Tone
The game got off to a lively start, with Crawley testing Reading goalkeeper David Button early on. Button produced a fine save to deny Will Swan as the visitors enjoyed a bright opening. However, it was Reading who struck first, taking the lead in the 20th minute. After Crawley failed to clear their lines following a Lewis Wing free-kick, Amadou Mbengue pounced, firing a low shot past Jojo Wollacott.
Crawley fought back and were level just 10 minutes later. Harry Forster’s shot took a deflection off Tyler Bindon, wrong-footing Button and bringing the sides level. Despite this, Reading remained calm and regained control before halftime.
Five minutes before the break, Lewis Wing restored Reading’s lead with a stunning 35-yard effort that flew past the helpless Crawley goalkeeper. Wing’s spectacular strike gave Reading momentum heading into the second half.
Second-Half Surge Seals Victory
Crawley came out fighting in the second half, putting Reading under pressure. Button was called into action again, making crucial saves to deny Junior Quitirna and Ronan Darcy. However, despite Crawley’s efforts, they could not find a way through.
Reading secured the win with two quick goals in the second half. In the 65th minute, Charlie Savage lobbed Wollacott with a clever finish after the goalkeeper had initially saved from Sam Smith. Eight minutes later, Smith added Reading’s fourth goal, slotting in unmarked for his fourth of the season.
“We responded really well to Crawley’s equaliser and took control of the game with some fantastic goals,” Reading manager Ruben Selles said after the match. “Lewis [Wing] was outstanding, and the team showed resilience when it mattered. We’ll look to keep this momentum going.”
Crawley’s Struggles Continue
The defeat leaves Crawley without a win in their last nine league games and suffering a sixth consecutive loss. Despite moments of promise, including a few dangerous attempts in the second half, their defensive frailties were once again exposed.
