McDermott proud despite narrow defeat

Reading manager Brian McDermott has said he is immensely proud of his side, as they pushed Manchester United to a 4-3 defeat.

It was an incredible first half at the Madejski Stadium, which equaled a record of the most goals scored in one half of football. Hal Robson-Kanu's assured finish gave Reading a surprise lead, before United hit back to make it 2-1. The Royals responded with two goals of their own, before Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie's goals' sealing the win.

Speaking to the Official Reading FC website, McDermott said: 'I was proud of the efforts and that first half performance from our players. It wasn't just effort alone, there was quality as well in the way we passed the ball. It was an incredible game really, and we've had a few of those this season. We played for our supporters.'

'They want to see us get the results and they will come. You see the confidence levels from our players, and look at the way we passed the ball and got crosses into the box. We caused them a lot of problems today and I thought with the late set play Morrison was going to score. I think we're becoming everybody's second team at this rate!'

I think all Reading fans can shadow McDermott's pride, as it really was a fantastic effort against a side with the stature of Manchester United. Not many teams are going to score three goals against the former Champions, let alone all in one half. The performances of Robson-Kanu, Tabb, McAnuff and Le Fondre are also worth of noting.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.