Reading FC’s Under-18s comeback to progress in FA Youth Cup.

Reading FC’s Under-18s make a stunning comeback and win a penalty shootout against Cheltenham Town to advance in the FA Youth Cup.

After an entertaining 2-2 tie at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Wednesday night, Jubilee Ntege of the Royals scored the game-winning penalty kick.

Cheltenham had the first genuine chance of the evening when a long throw into the Royals’ box was deflected goalwards, but the effort hit the inside of the post before being cleared by the Reading defence.

A few minutes later, a set piece found Cheltenham’s No. 2, McNamee, who rose highest to steer a header past Matt Pullinger and give the Robins an early lead.

Cheltenham made it 0-2 a few moments later. A missed pass at the back allowed Sopuru Obiebi to break through on goal and put the ball past Pullinger. The result at halftime was Reading 0-2 Cheltenham Town.

Reading made two substitutions at halftime, with Martin-Grant and Adjei replacing Hunte and Nour. Shortly after the hour mark, Anthony Dove was pulled due to a head injury sustained in a clash with Pullinger, forcing the Royals to make another substitution. He was succeeded by Ethan Heywood.

Shortly afterwards, the Royals finally scored the goal they were looking for. Goalkeeper Diallo failed to claim a cross into the area, allowing Kallum Fuller-Thompson to tap in from close range.

Reading persisted in their search for an equaliser, which came late in the game and was dramatic. Diallo failed to deal with a high pass into the box, and Callum Cliff pounced to bundle in the loose ball to square the game at 2-2, forcing extra time.

After 30 minutes of extra time, no side was able to break the draw, forcing a penalty shootout. Cheltenham scored their first penalty to take the lead, while Reading missed their first.

The visitors went ahead 2-0, but Adjei equalised for the Royals. Both teams made successful attempts, with Cheltenham scoring again before Reading answered. The Robins missed a penalty, placin it wide to hand Gilkes’ side a lifeline.

Reading evened the score when Pullinger dived wonderfully to save Cheltenham’s fifth penalty.

Ntege sent Diallo the wrong way to seal a historic 4-3 shootout victory, capping a stunning comeback and advancing Reading to the next round of the FA Youth Cup. Full Time: Reading 2-2 Cheltenham Town (Reading 4-3 Cheltenham Town).

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