Argyle hold firm against promotion rivals Reading in Home Park stalemate

Plymouth Argyle maintained their position one point ahead of fellow League One promotion hopefuls Reading after the sides shared a goalless draw at Home Park.

The Pilgrims produced a determined performance against a strong Reading side, with both teams having to settle for a point in a contest that saw chances at either end but ultimately no breakthrough.

The result means Argyle remain just ahead of the Royals in the League One standings, although both sides lost further ground on leaders Huddersfield Town.

Reading threatened early on, with Josh Knight producing an excellent defensive block in the ninth minute to deny Aribim Pepple after Xavier Amaechi delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area.

The visitors came even closer seven minutes later when Kyreece Lisbie rounded Argyle goalkeeper James Storer but could only fire wide of the target, wasting a golden opportunity to give Reading the lead.

Will Evans then headed narrowly wide from another impressive Amaechi delivery as the Royals continued to look dangerous.

However, Argyle showed their own attacking intent before the interval, with captain Joe Edwards coming agonisingly close in the 41st minute. The Pilgrims skipper unleashed a powerful volley which flew narrowly past the post.

The second half continued in similar fashion, with both sides searching for the breakthrough.

Reading threatened from a cleverly worked corner routine when Randell Williams fired a first-time effort towards goal, but Tyreeq Bakinson provided a vital touch to divert the ball over the crossbar.

Argyle responded with one of their best opportunities of the afternoon in the 65th minute. Will Evans unleashed a thunderous effort from around 30 yards, forcing Royals goalkeeper Joel Pereira into an excellent save to tip the ball over.

Reading captain Lewis Wing also went close at the other end with a dipping effort, ensuring the closing stages remained competitive.

Despite both teams having opportunities to claim all three points, neither could find the decisive finish.

For Argyle, the draw at least preserves their advantage over a direct promotion rival, although the Pilgrims will know that victories are needed if they are to close the gap on leaders Huddersfield.