READING were unable to halt AFC Bournemouth’s march towards the Premier League last night, Callum Wilson’s early goal earning the south coast club all three points at the Madejski Stadium.
The in-form striker scored his 22nd goal of the season after just four minutes, tapping home from close range after Andrew Surman’s shot had hit the post.
Reading face Arsenal in the FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley on Saturday, but manager Steve Clarke fielded his strongest possible side.
Only a superb save from Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc prevented Jamie Mackie levelling the game soon after, while Jordan Obita blazed over when well placed.
Yaan Kermogant, Matt Ritchie and Steve Cook all went close to adding to the lead and while Reading mounted some late pressure, they were unable to trouble Boruc.
Reading assistant manager Kevin Keen said: “We were just about the better team, but the best team in the league won.
“We deserved at least a draw. We were competitive, but sometimes football is like that.”
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