The home side started the better and were soon in front through a Darren Pratley header. The midfielder arrived late in the box to slot home an out-swinging cross.

Bolton's Darren Pratley heads in the opening goal against Reading on August 10, 2013 © Getty Images

Pratley could have added to his account just minutes later but, when presented with plenty of room in the middle of the pitch, he drove a shot over the crossbar.

Bolton began to pass the ball around nicely and David Ngog had a good chance but was denied by a smart save from Alex McCarthy.

However, Reading's patient build-up play failed to create any clear-cut chances. Royston Drenthe went on a mazy run but his 30-yard shot went well over.

The winger was involved again when Danny Guthrie collected his cross but failed to hit the target.

Their equaliser came early in the second half through a Nick Blackman penalty. Wayne Bridge's corner was handled in the box and Blackman stepped up to score his first goal for the Royals.

Reading's Nick Blackman is congratulated by team mate Gareth McCleary after scoring the equaliser against Bolton on August 10, 2013 © Getty Images

It was almost two for the away side soon after but Garath McCleary's long-range shot was well saved by Adam Bogdan.

Jay Spearing tried something similar for the home side but he fizzed his effort wide of McCarthy's post.

The arrival of Adam Le Fondre for Nick Blackman almost paid off immediately when Drenthe squared the ball for the striker, but Bodgan was there to save.

Le Fondre was looking dangerous and his cross had to be cleared by the Bolton defence.

Dougie Freedman brought on Craig Davies for Jermaine Beckford to spice up his attack, but it was Reading who looked the more likely to score.

However, both teams had to settle for a point apiece.