Blackpool v Reading: Live updates from the first game of the Championship season
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Paul Ince and son Tom are back in town as the Seasiders look to kick off the 2022/23 campaign with a victory.
Follow our blog for build-up, team news, live match updates and post-match reaction...
Blackpool v Reading LIVE
Key Events
- FT: Blackpool 1-0 Reading
- Seasiders host Paul Ince’s Royals in first game of the season
- Michael Appleton hoping to get second spell off to a positive start
- Richard Keogh an injury doubt
No fist bumps
Fans in the North Stand want a fist bump, but he simply applauds and walks down the touchline.
It's a new era, folks.
FULL TIME!!!
That was a nervy watch in the second-half, but Michael Appleton’s side get over the line to start the new season with a win.
Just what the doctor ordered!
88 - Chance
Josh Bowler pounces on a slip from a Reading defender and looks to pull the ball back to Theo Corbeanu, but he overhits his cross and Reading clear.
82 - Triple change
Blackpool taking full advantage of the new five-sub rule by making a triple change.
ON: Thorniley, Hamilton and Corbeanu
OFF: Thompson, Carey and Yates
79 - Chance
Shayne Lavery is sent through down the left but takes too long to shoot, allowing a Reading defender to recover and clear.
Meanwhile Kenny Dougall goes into the book for a pull back.
71 - Second change
Gary Madine is the man to make way for Shayne Lavery. Lavery takes the central position, rather than Jerry Yates.
70 - Another change on the way
Shayne Lavery also being readied. Blackpool need to get up the pitch and stop inviting pressure.
65 - First change
Michael Appleton senses the slight change in momentum and quickly acts, replacing Matty Virtue with Kenny Dougall.
Lewis Fiorini moves onto a more advanced midfield position.
59 - Saved
Jerry Yates lofts up a cross towards Gary Madine, but he can't generate any power and his header is straight at Joe Lumley.
56 - Electric
Josh Bowler has his marker on absolute toast.
He rides two weak challenges before floating a cross towards goal, but it's too closer to the keeper.
52 - Let off
Big let-off for the Seasiders as a ball flashes across the face of the six-yard box. Think it was Junior Hoilett who poked it towards goal but thankfully straight at Dan Grimshaw.
49 - Post!
Almost a wonder solo goal from Josh Bowler as he waltzes into the Reading box before shooting against the foot of the woodwork. So close!
HALF TIME
A very encouraging first 45 minutes of the season. Dom Thompson and Lewis Fiorini excellent on debut.