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:
13. SUB: Zac Ashworth - 7
Zac Ashworth mainly helped out with the defensive effort after being introduced in the second half. Photo: Gareth Evans
14. SUB: Joel Randall - 6
Joel Randall came close to scoring after being introduced in the second half, but was denied by Joel Pereira. Photo: Gareth Evans
15. SUB: Tom Bloxham - 6
Tom Bloxham came on and put in a shift for the closing stages. Photo: Gareth Evans
16. SUB: Niall Ennis - 6
Niall Ennis was also introduced for the final stages of the contest. Photo: Gareth Evans
17. SUB: Ryan Finnigan - 6
Ryan Finnigan was introduced for the closing stages. Photo: Gareth Evans