Reading have reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup after dispatching Bradford City 3-0 in this evening's quarter-final replay at the Madejski Stadium.
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It took the Royals just six minutes to deflate the atmosphere among the travelling fans as Hal Robson-Kanu edged Stephen Darby and nodded home from close range following a corner.
The Bantams were still reeling from the early concession when the hosts went on to double their lead, Garath McCleary's shot from the right flank taking a deflection off Andy Halliday before soaring into the net.
Reading took their foot off the pedal somewhat but continued to threaten, with Danny Williams lashing an effort from long range that forced a smart save from opposition goalkeeper Ben Williams.
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Bradford tried to rally round in the second half but soon found themselves with a mountain to climb just after the hour when Filipe Morais was shown a straight red card for catching Nathaniel Chalobah studs first in the stomach.
Five minutes later it was all over for the visitors as Jamie Mackie collected Chalobah's through-ball before taking two touches and smashing the ball through the legs of Ben Williams.
Reading were able to see out the latter stages of the game with ease and, upon the final whistle, could celebrate reaching the semi-finals of the illustrious competition for the first time in 88 years, where they will face Arsenal.
Giuseppe Labellarte
