An early opportunity came the Royals’ way in the opening exchanges, with Jeriel Dorsett unable to get a touch on the ball at the back post to convert from close-range.
The best chance of the first half came through Karoy Anderson – who saw a well-hit side-footed attempt tipped just over the bar by Joel Pereira.
Blocks from both Hayden Coulson and James Husband were required to keep Reading out in the closing stages before the break, but there was nothing for Franco Ravizzoli to deal with directly in goal.
Meanwhile, Taylor was denied once again by Pereira, with no flag going up on this occasion after a ball through from Jordan Brown.
Action following the restart proved to be limited once again. In fact the first notable moment of the second half was the goal in the 74th minute.
CJ Hamilton worked his way inside from the right side, before releasing a thunderous effort from distance into the top corner.
Substitute Joel Randall almost quickly doubled the lead, but was denied by Pereira from close-range.
Here’s how the Seasiders performed:
7. Jordan Brown - 7
Jordan Brown put in his usual shift in front of the defence. Photo: Gareth Evans
8. Karoy Anderson - 7
Karoy Anderson was strong in the midfield again as his loan spell from Charlton Athletic concluded with another excellent display. Photo: Gareth Evans
9. Leighton Clarkson - 6
Leighton Clarkson probably couldn't get into the contest as much as he would've hoped. Photo: Gareth Evans
10. Hayden Coulson - 7
Hayden Coulson made an important block towards the end of the first half on his return from suspension. Photo: Gareth Evans
11. Ashley Fletcher - 6
It was a quiet afternoon for Ashley Fletcher, with nothing coming the way of the Seasiders' top scorer. Photo: Gareth Evans
12. Dale Taylor - 6
Dale Taylor had a couple of chances, but couldn't beat Joel Pereira. Photo: Gareth Evans