Reading FC

Stuart Evans: Value of money 10
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Reading v Liverpool - fan's verdict

By Stuart Evans
January 15, 2010

I honestly thought the first game of this tie was an opportunity lost and I’m not sure many of us believed Liverpool would be so bad again or Reading so good.

We were sharp, purposeful and every player committed to giving 100 per cent.

The subs had an impact, like subs should, and McDermott should be applauded for the use of them and their timing.

The first-half injury time sucker-punch was hard to take, but the penalty made up for it. The composure Sigurdsson showed for a 20-year-old in that situation was outstanding, as was Gunnarsson’s when he nipped past the Liverpool defenders in the 100th minute!

His delivery was perfect and credit to Shane Long he was in the right place, but really he couldn’t miss.

The star man could have been one of many, but Matt Mills was cool and assured throughout and never shirked a header or challenge. People will still have reservations about McDermott as manager, but a lot less of them than yesterday morning. I for one believe he’s earned the chance.

Star Man: Matt Mills
Value for money: 10/10

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Gunnarsson has at last rediscovered his form - been critical of him for quite some time but the last two matches has been inspiring.

paul winnan, Camberley
16/01/2010 at 17:05

I have criticised Gunnarsson in recent seasons, but for me he was quality in this and the previous game. He has really rediscovered his form.

paul winnan, Camberley
16/01/2010 at 17:04

I have criticised Gunnarsson for quite a while for being clumsy and not having the pace, but in the last two matches he has been simply outstanding, and has really rediscovered his form. I also agree that Jobi was excellent, seeing him get past those "quality" players with such ease made me proud to be Reading!

paul winnan, Camberley
16/01/2010 at 17:04

i think its tootough to call a m-o-m as there were too many fantastic performancesyou would even have to throw in ivar and gem into the equasion, gylfi was quality and how cool was that pen. under the pressure,longyand kebe worked there socks off when they came on- it will be interesting to see if the wide players track back at forest in the same way.

i personally think its too close to call between five or six when taking other factors into play, such age, recent injuries, amount of games played recently etc.

ajr111, swindon
15/01/2010 at 23:35

Stu - Agree with Matt Mills as MOTM, why hasn't he been playing regularly? By the way, is that a fox round your neck?

Paulo1
15/01/2010 at 23:16

Hi Stuart. Remember me? I sat in the row behind you at Anfield and lent you my dead stoat to wrap round your neck to keep warm. When you left just before the penalty, you didn't return it and appear to still be wearing it in that photo. Please send it back via registered mail ASAP. My neck is freezing.

Torqemada, Reading
15/01/2010 at 20:59

Gunnarsson Man of the Match for me - the turn trick then nutmeg and inch perfect cross for Long - keep watching it on You Tube!

All the lads were brilliant to be fair and hats off to McDermott for his tactics & subs.