Much tougher game tonight with some real bite. But Reading deserved winners, just on the being less cynical stakes. Especially that Villa number 14 O'hare. Horrible little player, trying to people booked, diving and then a stupid challenge. Somehow he stayed out of the book.
I'll start with my disappointments.
Connor Shaughnessy - had a habit of miscontrolling the first touch and putting himself under pressure. When under control the pass was often good though.
Nova - Seemed a little off the pace this evening, struggled to control the ball at times and didn't really threaten Villa. Looks a little behind all the others technically, but has all the other attributes to make it with more time in the academy.
Positives -
Liam Kelly. Cracking footballer and well taken free kick for the winner. And don't let his size fool you, he's strong, he uses his height well and he's not afraid to stick his foot in if someone is trying bully him. Obviously needs to prove it but you never know.
Keown & Sweeney - these two seem to read each others minds. A great partnership
Lincoln - Actually had some work today unlike Monday, 1 excellent point blank save when called upon and showed extreme bravery to clear a corner (or was it free kick?) that nearly ended the match for him after a Villa player took him out just before half time, but he powered through it and finished the match looking his usual assured self.
Plenty of scouts there tonight, Kevin Dillon was there... understand he was watching Aaron for a scottish premier side. Season long loan on the cards? Could be the making of him like it was Hector.
Also spotted Gary Johnson.
Brian Howard was watching as well, weirdly.
Shout out to Martin Kuhl for telling Nana Owusu to man up and deal with the physical side of the game, and telling Lincoln off for showboating early on
