Point drops us out, but keeps hopes alive

Simon Grayson's Leeds side hosted Reading at Elland Road, the atmosphere was tense as the home crowd were well aware of the games importance. Reading had the first chance of the game when Jobi McAnuff got a smart ball down the wing from Shane Long only for his chance to smothered by Kasper Schmeichel.

Leeds were next to excite when Jake Livermore's cross reached the head of Robert Snodgrass but his effort superbly tipped over the top by Alex McCarthy. The atmosphere was electric at times despite few chances being created. It was the right boot of Max Gradel which was next to test McCarthy his shot from range moved in the air and the Reading keeper's save agonisingly trickled past the post. Leeds looked the more likely in a half of few opportunities.

The second half started with a change in personnel for Grayson as he subbed the carded Livermore for Neil Kilkenny after the Spurs loanee put in a few rash challenges. United had a flurry of chances as they began to seize control. But it was Reading to have the first clear sight of goal when Andy Griffin went past Gradel with ease and when Bradley Johnson failed to close his thunderous strike went harmlessly into the side netting.

This time it was Johnson on the offensive. He picked the ball up in midfield and surged into the box skipping away from defenders but his finish was poked flush against the crossbar. With the game heading towards its climax he turned to super sub Davide Somma and Sanchez Watt to spark magic, they replaced Jonny Howson and Billy Paynter.

The Royals had a chance against the run of play. Mikele Leigertwood found space and saw his curling shot just creep past the post which was met with a despairing dive from Schmeichel. The travelling fans thought it was in! Leeds' never say die attitude came into play once more as Gradel struck one from distance again. McCarthy parried to Gradel and he crossed for Snodgrass who's header was once more thwarted by McCarthy.

Reading looked to shut up shop for the final few minutes as Leeds dug deep for a winner. In added time Watt nicked the ball away from McCarthy but failed to turn and get his shot on goal. That proved to be the last action of a thrilling 0-0 draw at Elland Road. A good point for both sides, Leeds will be disappointed not to have capitalised on their dominance but the draw ends Reading winning streak and keeps the Whites in the hunt for a Play-off place.

Att. 24,564

Leeds 0-0 Reading