Reading 0-1 Blackpool FC: CJ Hamilton stunner helps Seasiders to winning conclusion

Blackpool claimed a 1-0 victory over Reading in their final game of the season.

Blackpool finished the 2025/26 campaign with a 1-0 victory over Reading at the Select Cars Leasing Stadium - courtesy of a stunning CJ Hamilton strike.

The Seasiders’ League One survival had already been confirmed by last weekend’s results, while there was nothing for the Royals to play for either following the recent end of their play-off ambitions.

Ian Evatt’s side end the season 13th in the third tier table, and will be hoping to build on their strong end to proceedings next time around.

An early opportunity came Reading’s 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.

Beyond that, the opening half an hour was truly short of entertainment. Blackpool were unable to test Joel Pereira - whose only save came from Dale Taylor in an offside position, while The Royals only further attempts were nothing more than speculative.

In the final 15 minutes before the break, there was a chance a piece for the two sides.

Paddy Lane dragged an effort wide of the back post after a first-time strike in the box, while a side-footed shot from Karoy Anderson needed a fingertip from Pereira to stop the ball from finding the top corner.

Blocks from both Hayden Coulson and James Husband were required to keep Reading out in the closing stages of the half, 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.

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.

Blackpool FC: Franco Ravizzoli, Reuell Walters, Olly Casey, James Husband, CJ Hamilton, Jordan Brown (80’), Karoy Anderson, Leighton Clarkson (64’), Hayden Coulson (64’), Dale Taylor (72’), Ashley Fletcher (72’).

Substitutes: Bailey Peacock-Farrell, Zac Ashworth (64’), Tom Bloxham (72’), Andy Lyons, Ryan Finnigan (80’), Joel Randall (64’), Niall Ennis (72’).

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