Reading FC’s gaffer was full of praise for goalscorer Smith after the Royals’ 3-1 win at Cambridge United.
The Royals picked up a brilliant 3-1 victory against Cambridge United at the Abbey on New Year’s Day to start 2025 off on a high. A brace from Harvey Knibbs and a spectacular Sam Smith goal secured the points to move Reading up to fifth in the table.
Manager Noel Hunt was full of praise for his side. Here is what he had to say, he spoke to the Reading Chronicle.
“I thought the game was a really good test for us in terms of how we defended as a team - everyone pulling together - because they had a spell at the start, and we defended it well.
“We talked about moments of quality in the final third - we had two in the first half. We want more but we understand the situation in the games. We get a corner, a second phase and we put the ball in the right area.
“I’m really pleased with it in terms of how they approached it. We took a blow early in the second half, they came out fast as we said they would. After that we got our heads together and worked really well.”
“He has been superb. I love him. He’s a fantastic number nine and leads the line so well. He is pivotal in what we do. He reads the game so well and brings others into play.
“He deserved the goal today and I said to him he would get one with his work rate, that something would fall for him, and he would score. From the minute he hit it, it looked sweet, and we knew it was in.”
“It doesn’t matter who we put onto the pitch, they know what is required and understand what is needed for the team. You have to give everything you’ve got for this club, this team and the fans - I think they got their money’s worth.
“We have a vision - are we there? No we’re not, but we can keep building on what we’re doing and improving as best we can?”
