First Sign Encouraging

Well it wasn’t the fairytale beginning of an exciting new era that we all dreamed off, but it’s weren’t too far off.

A stalemate at home is nothing to sneer your nose at and some, even just a little, composure up front and we could have bagged the first three points of the season and a first home win since January.

I cannot believe it’s been that long.

Nonetheless, it was a very, very encouraging performance and it’s spectacular that potential we have. I was excited.

Brendan Rodgers, the youngest manager in the league, showed that he has the initiative, passion and the expertise to exceed in this job and his animated stances and reactions on the sidelines were a pleasure, a complete contrast to what we saw under Steve Coppell.

Rodgers’ tactics were clever and the formation inspiring, the youngsters looked to be enjoying themselves and playing with some creative freedom.

Scott Davies played surprisingly well on debut and he looked a real driving force in midfield, with Jimmy Kebe and Hal Robson-Kanu occupying the width, Reading looked dangerous every time they attacked.

I went into the game a little anxious, unexpected what was to come really. Forest are no mugs by any means and it was blatantly obvious that they’ve brought £6 million worth of talent. When they nicked a 1-0 win at the Mad Stad last term, they didn’t look good. They played well and performed better as an unit; they will definitely be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.

Although Reading have spent significantly on Matthew Mills, signings have not been flooding in and a few new faces are still expected to come to enhance the squad. A 20 goal a season striker could come in handy but I have faith that Reading will do well.

Playoffs for sure.

Alex Pearce, what a fine centre half he’s becoming, captained Reading to a clean sheet and played like a man who’s been in the playing for ten years; he is pinnacle to Reading’s destiny this season.

I was convinced that Kebe had scored when the deflected of him. Then somehow Davies and then Shane Long blasted over from close range – all was needed was a little bit of composure.

Long looked like he had something to prove and he showed what he was capable, he must be relishing not to be wrestling Kevin Doyle and Dave Kitson for a start up front, he needs to have a good season.

The first signs are certainly encouraging.