Stams era starts with a win

Stams first competitive game as a manager started with a win as Reading defeated Preston 1-0.

The Royals controlled the game and there were some really promising signs throughout the 90 minutes.

Jaap Stam starting with Al-Habsi in goal. It was a back four of Gunter, McShane, Van Den Berg and Obita. George Evans sit in front of them with Williams and Swift creating. Deniss Rakels lead the line with Beerens and Mccleary either side.

Reading started brightly and dominated the ball during the whole of the first 45 minutes.

Beerens and swift linked up on many occasions during the first period but Reading just couldn’t apply that final touch.

This was until the 35th minutes when a low corner from Mccleary came to swift on the edge of the box who expertly guided into the top corner. A wonderful goal to start off the season.

This saw the home side deservedly 1 up at the break.

Preston improved in the second 45 and probably should’ve equalised when Evans was caught in possession, only for the Preston forward to hit straight at Al-Habsi.

Reading had moments where they could’ve double their lead, but Rakels didn’t have his shooting boots on unfortunately.

Despite the nervy end, Jaap’s men held on for a much needed three points to start this new era.