Brewers Ruin Royals' Big Day

NIGEL CLOUGH insisted that itwas his side, not the occasion,that got to their opponents as Burton Albion recorded back-toback away wins for the first time in nearly two years on what was Reading’s 500th game at the Madejski Stadium.

- Will Shillibier

Tom Flanagan’s first goal in over five years and a freak Tom Naylor winner gave Burton three points and helped them climb out of the bottom three thanks to Sunderland and Birmingham drawing.

And Clough says his players deserve the credit for the performance and the result.

“We were aware that there would be a good crowd,” said Clough, with Reading recording their biggest attendance of the season, 21,771. “The best way to keep them quiet was to get a goal.

“I don’t think the occasion got to them, but I hope we got to them with the way that we played.

“Before the game, we’d have been happy with a point. We know we can be solid, but the next stage is about being a bit more clinical.

“I don’t think many more things could have gone against us so far this season. We’re earning our luck, and the last two results really lift our spirits.