Reading Fighting for Promotion

Marcus Hahnemann and Reading face Burnely tonight in the second leg of the promotion playoff semifinals. Reading need to overturn a 1-0 deficit at the Madejski Stadium. The game kicks off in around half an hour, with coverage live on Setanta Sports. We'll update you here with what's going on, so if you're afraid of spoilers...stay away!

While you wait for the game to kickoff, here's some footage from the first game:



Still 0-0, but 15 minutes in Reading have had the best chance. They worked the ball to Tabb who tests Burnley goalkeeper Brian Jensen. Hahnemann hasn't had much to do so far as Reading are dominating possession.

30 minutes and it's still scoreless. Reading have most of the ball but Burnley are defending resolutely.

0-0 at halftime...everything to play for still.

Five minutes into the second half and things look bleak for Reading. Martin Paterson with a stunning strike from distance to give Burnley a 1-0 lead on the night and a 2-0 aggregate advantage. Hahnemann could do nothing there - that ball was beautifully curled into the back of the net from about 25 yards.

Things have gone from bad to worse for Reading. Steven Thompson with an awesome half-volley from just outside the area has given Burnley a 3-0 lead on aggregate. Again no chance for Hahnemann with that one - the ball was dipping all the way and just caromed off the crossbar before bouncing down over the line.

And it's all over. Reading are out of the playoffs, losing 3-0 on aggregate to Burnley.