FA Cup

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FA Cup | Quarter-Finals

Mar 16, 2015 at 7.45pm UK

Reading
3-0
Bradford Bradford City

Robson-Kanu (6'), McCleary (9'), Mackie (68')

FT(HT: 2-0)

Morais (62')

Reading through to FA Cup semi-finals after ending Bradford City's dream

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 16 March 2015

Reading reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup after dispatching Bradford City 3-0 in Monday evening's quarter-final replay at the Madejski Stadium.

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.

Garath McCleary of Reading celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the FA Cup Quarter Final Replay match between Reading and Bradford City at Madejski Stadium on March 16, 2015 © Getty Images

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.

Hal Robson-Kanu of Reading heads the opening goal during the FA Cup Quarter Final Replay match between Reading and Bradford City at Madejski Stadium on March 16, 2015 © Getty Images

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.