Noel Hunt ‘Gutted’ After Reading’s Shootout Loss At Walsall

A young Royals side didn’t quite have enough in regular time or in the resulting shootout at the Bescot on Tuesday night.

The Royals are out of the EFL Trophy after a 4-2 loss in a penalty shootout at the Bescot Stadium, drawing 1-1 in regular time.

Our young Royals did us proud, especially after David Button was sent off with 58 minutes on the clock. Tyler Sackey scored in the 72nd minute to give us the lead but, just three minutes later, we went down to nine men with Ashqar Ahmed also seeing red. Danny Johnson equalised in the 97th minute to take it to penalties which Walsall progressed through.

Manager Noel Hunt was proud of his side’s performance, saying it was a good learning experience for those involved. Here is what he had to say to the official club website.

Hunt on the defeat

“The game had everything – chances, saves, blocks, goals, red cards.

“I thought the boys, especially in the second half, started really well. We were more assured in ourselves and took control of the game. Then the sending-off changed things a bit, but we stayed brave, kept going at them, and got a goal, which gave us a real lift.

“We knew it was going to be tough because they’re a good side. But for the next 26 minutes, we defended our box outstandingly. It felt like the clock would never run down, but the boys enjoyed the one-vs-one battles, enjoyed defending for a clean sheet. Unfortunately, we just fell short in the end.”

Hunt on the team’s performance

“I’m gutted for the boys because they gave everything. They’ve got to be proud of themselves and how the game went. It’s great learning for the younger lads playing in these competitions.

“Walsall had pace, experience, and physicality, but we had young teenagers out there battling and competing. They came out on top in many moments, which is a credit to them.”

Hunt on Blackpool on Saturday

“The games don’t stop, and the preparation starts now. It’s about taking things one day at a time, getting the boys back, and ensuring we’re ready for Saturday.

“When we play at home, our mindset doesn’t change. It’s in our nature to attack, and that’s what we’ll continue to do.”