Birmingham City run out winners in RG2
In the early exchanges, Birmingham City came perilously close to breaking the deadlock. Claudia Walker seized space on the left flank, cutting inside and attempting to curl her shot into the far corner, only to be denied by the woodwork, leaving the Blues forward frustrated as her effort kissed the post.
However, Birmingham didn't have to wait long to find the breakthrough. Just after the 10-minute mark, some slick passing around the Royals' box allowed Jade Moore to find herself in acres of space. With composure, the midfielder took a touch before expertly curling the ball into the net, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead.
Reading began to find their rhythm, with Madison Perry and Josie Longhurst combining intricately to unlock Birmingham's defense. Perry found herself in a promising position but couldn't steer her effort on target, allowing Birmingham to breathe a sigh of relief.
Birmingham threatened once again as Lily Agg rattled the woodwork for the second time within the opening twenty minutes. Agg's penetrating run down the right flank culminated in a powerful strike that ricocheted off the post, much to Reading's fortune.
The Royals nearly found an equalizer with their best move of the game so far. Esther Mayi-Kith's perfectly timed pass found Perry in a promising position, but the Royals' number nine couldn't find the target, as Gemma Lawley's crucial block denied Reading the leveller.
Birmingham extended their lead with a well-executed long ball from Lucy Thomas, splitting the Royals' defense open. Neve Horran capitalized on the space down the right-hand side, delivering a pinpoint cross for Libby Smith, who delicately lifted her finish over the advancing Emily Orman to make it 2-0 for Birmingham.
Half-time: Reading 0-2 Birmingham City
Ten minutes into the second half, Birmingham City further punished Reading to extend their lead to 3-0. Orman's attempted clearance was intercepted by Agg, who managed to sneak her foot in front of the ball, slotting it into an empty net with ease.
The third goal seemed to sap the energy from the game, with Birmingham firmly in control. Despite Reading's efforts to claw their way back into the match, the Blues maintained their dominance.
Charlie Devlin attempted to spark a comeback for Reading, displaying nimble footwork as she maneuvered through the Royals' defense. However, her shot lacked accuracy, drifting wide of the post.
Orman showcased her bravery at the front post, thwarting Birmingham's attempts to further their lead. A free kick saw Lucy Quinn lurking at the back post, but Orman reacted swiftly, smothering the ball and extinguishing the threat.
Deanne Cooper had a rare opportunity to find a consolation goal for Reading, unleashing a shot from distance. However, her effort lacked power, allowing Thomas to gather comfortably.
Birmingham sealed their victory with Agg's second goal, and Birmingham's fourth of the night, courtesy of Herron's delivery. Agg rose highest to meet the lofted ball, directing her header past Orman to complete Birmingham's emphatic victory.
Full-time: Reading 0 – 4 Birmingham City
