Richard And Clarkson Seal Win

Bristol Rovers secured an impressive 2-1 win over Championship side Reading at The Memorial Stadium.

Rovers included new signing John Joe O’Toole in the starting line up and George Rigg was given another chance to impress. Reading striker Pavel Pogrebnyak should have put Reading in front early on, but somehow missed an open goal. After soaking up a bit of early pressure from Reading, Rovers started to impress going forward and took the lead through Eliot Richard. Ellis Harrison started the move off crossing the ball for Parkes to nod down for Richard who slotted home from close range.

Rovers then made an early sub taking off striker Matt Harrold who had a tight groin and was replaced by Mitch Harding who took full advantage of his chance. The lively Michael Smith then crossed for David Clarkson to put Rovers 2-0 up.

Rovers put on some of the younger players in the second half, Tom Lockyer, Alefe Santos, Pat Keary and Shaquille Hunter were all given run outs. Trialist George Rigg was also given the last 10 minutes. McCleary did pull agoal back for Reading firing home from 25 yards out.

A good run out for Rovers in the last friendly of the season before they travel to St James Park for the start of the League Two season on Saturday.