Udoka Godwin-Malife's second-half goal earned Reading a point from a 1-1 draw away to Bradford City. The result on Saturday maintains Reading's seventh-place position in League One on 12 points after eight games, keeping them within four points of the automatic promotion places.
Bradford started quickly, with Jake Beesley finding the net after just four minutes. Reading responded with a more controlled second-half performance and got their reward when Godwin-Malife met Jacob Brown's delivery to head home in the 66th minute. The visitors had to withstand late pressure but held on for a share of the spoils.
Team selections and changes
Manager Rubén Sellés made one change from the side that drew 1-1 with Wycombe Wanderers in their previous outing, bringing in Kyreece Lisbie. The starting lineup featured Joel Pereira in goal, with a back four of Udoka Godwin-Malife, Paudie O'Connor, Benn David Ward, and Haydon Roberts. The midfield trio was Lewis Wing, Andy Rinomhota, and Jacob Brown, supporting a front three of J. Stokes, P. Lane, and Lisbie.
Sellés made a double substitution just before the hour mark, introducing Randell Williams and Liam Fraser for Roberts and Rinomhota. Jamie Reid replaced goal-assist provider Jacob Brown shortly after the equaliser, and Daniel·Kyerewaa came on for Lisbie late in the game.
Match statistics and discipline
Reading edged possession with 56 percent and took 11 shots, though only three were on target. They won nine corners to Bradford's five. The game was a physical affair, with the hosts committing 21 fouls. Andy Rinomhota and Haydon Roberts were both shown yellow cards for Reading in the first half.
Reading's next fixture is a trip to face Milton Keynes Dons, who are currently 22nd in the table, on Saturday, 10 October. Check the full schedule on our fixtures page.
