Reading fell to a narrow 2-1 defeat at Championship Cardiff City in the latest pre-season friendly.

Callum Robinson netted in each half of what was an even contest at the Cardiff City Stadium, while Femi Azeez scored in his second successive match during the first half.

Starting with a mixture of first-team regulars and youngsters, the likes of Harvey Knibbs, Amadou Mbengue and Ben Elliott featured in the first half before the likes of Charlie Savage, Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan and Lewis Wing played the second half.

Falling behind within five minutes, it was an individual error from Coniah Boyce-Clarke which let Robinson in, a mistake which was quickly buried by the Jamaica international who enjoyed a solid evening.

Reading’s high press caused the Bluebirds problems all night and it bought about a goal not long after falling behind as the hosts were caught out on the edge of their own box and eventually Azeez slammed home an equaliser.

Ruben Selles’ side caused plenty of problems in the second half, with Ehibhatiomhan and Camara wasting good sights on goal.

Boyce-Clarke could do little about Robinson’s winner with less than 10 minutes to go, with the former West Brom striker converting at the back post after a low cross was sent through the box.

Perhaps the biggest cheer of the evening for the travelling supporters came on the hour mark as former fan favourite Yakou Meite entered the fray.

Making almost 170 appearances in seven years with the club, the Ivorian moved to South Wales in 2023 and was coming up against Reading for the first time since his departure.

As substitutions began to break up the flow of the game, the hosts began to assert their quality on the game, carving out chances and taking the initiative. It still brought about no additional goals, the scoreline correctly reflecting the nature of the match.

With the League One campaign underway in 10 days, Hull City visit Berkshire on Saturday for what will be the final friendly of pre-season.