READING FC continued their stellar record in the EFL Trophy by smashing five goals past an inexperienced Swindon side.
Two goals from Harvey Knibbs in the first half got the Royals off to a promising start, and the midfielder was able to complete his treble from the penalty spot early in the second period. Finishes from Paul Mukairu and Harlee Dean put the contest to bed.
Here’s how the players fared:
David Button 6: Brought in last-minute following Boyce-Clarke’s injury in the warm-up. Hardly tested throughout the encounter.
Andy Yiadom 7: Swindon allowed the Royals skipper the licence to get forward at will, even coming close to scoring twice.
Tom Holmes 6: Answered most of the questions asked of him with relative ease. Forced off with what looked to be a knock of some sort.
Clinton Mola 6.5: Started in the left centre-back position and acquitted himself well, albeit had very little to do.
Nesta Guinness-Walker 7: Delivered some quality crosses from the left, one of which was converted by Knibbs for his second.
Tivonge Rushesha 6: Industrious as always and did the simple things right. Showcased his defensive capabilities to snuff out the few advances Swindon made.
Michael Craig 7: Quietly confident in everything he did. Composed on the ball and carried out his brief in the number 6 position to a tee.
Paul Mukairu 6: Not a stand-out display, but earned his side a penalty, helping Knibbs complete his hat-trick, and scored a late tap-in.
Harvey Knibbs 8.5: Took his goals superbly. Provided an outlet down Reading’s left and worked hard out of possession until he was replaced by Azeez.
Jayden Wareham 7: Did a lot of positive running in the opening stages on both ends of the pitch. Could have got on the scoresheet with a handful of efforts from the edge of the box.
Caylan Vickers 6.5: Displayed his trademark fancy footwork and created the fourth goal with a well-hit free-kick which was parried into the path of Mukairu.
Substitutes:
Femi Azeez: 6
Harlee Dean: 6
Tom Norcott: N/A
Lewis Wing: N/A
Michael Stickland: N/A
