2-0 Nottingham Forest reading: Lucas Joao puts Royals on track to routine win as fans return to Madejski

Lucas Joao scored for the fifth straight game as Reading moved up to second in the Championship by doing a 10-man Nottingham Forest light job in front of 2,000 fans at Madejski Stadium.

The Royals, who are now tied on points with leader Bournemouth before the rest of the afternoon’s games, had little trouble with the Reds, who have added just one point in five games without scoring a goal.

Standout Michael Olise took control of midfield and scored the crucial second goal with a glorious free-kick that was finished off by center-back Michael Morrison shortly after the break.

The game was one of 17 games across the EFL that had limited crowds in Level 2 areas and those on the field created a surprisingly loud atmosphere that certainly contributed to a high-paced start.

Both sides had chances in the animated first 10 minutes, Ranger Samba made an awkward plunge block from Yakou Meite’s blow from afar and Rafael of Reading used his legs to avoid Lyle Taylor’s short-range volley from Anthony Knockaert’s free kick. .

The joy felt by both home fans and players was clear, but the novelty soon faded for Forest with Yates’ dismissal, leading to almost total dominance at Reading.

Taylor’s chance was the only chance the visitors got for the rest of the half and it was their only goal attempt. They are still 21 with their miserable streak continuing.

The hosts used the extra man wisely, extending the game and getting plenty of ball for the highly talented teenager Olise.

His delicious pass should have led Meite to make it 2-0, but the striker fired wildly after a neat turn, while Joao nearly had his second of the afternoon with a misdirected cross that eluded Samba.

Samba also had to duck to clear Olise’s shot from the edge of the box in the second half before Morrison’s ingenious header calmed nerves and Reading went to victory with minimal problems.