Substitute Emma Harries made a dramatic impact with two goals as Reading fought back for a draw against Women’s Super League relegation rivals Brighton.
Second-bottom Brighton were 2-0 up and cruising after 13 minutes thanks to a brace from Veatriki Sarri.
However, Harries’ introduction off the bench at half-time turned the game in the home side’s favour.
She scored less than a minute into the second half and then again on the hour mark to earn Reading a point.
The draw meant 10th-placed Reading are four points clear of bottom side Leicester City, while Brighton are two away from danger.
Harries gives Royals hope in relegation battle
The visitors started strongly and led in the eighth minute when Katie Robinson’s knock-down at the far post found Sarri, who fired into the roof of the net from close range.
Five minutes later, the Greek forward was on target again. Guro Bergsvand flicked a header goalwards and Sarri was alert to poke home.
Reading had a great chance to pull a goal back when Faye Bryson’s superb volley was tipped over the bar by keeper Lydia Williams.
But Harries proved the difference for the hosts with two goals in 14 minutes.
Captain Emma Mukandi provided the assist with a hopeful ball forward and Harries took it under control and glided through the defence to score.
Lily Woodham then floated in a cross that was met by a cushioned header from Harries for the equaliser.
A battling comeback will give Reading a much-needed boost after losing to Chelsea in the FA Cup last weekend.
Their next fixture is a must-win game against bottom club Leicester.
After this display, Harries should now be in contention to start a match that Reading cannot afford to lose if they are to keep their place in the WSL.
Source – BBC Sport
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