Republic of Ireland striker Shane Long headed in two second half goals to give Reading and their large Irish contingent a realistic hope of automatic promotion to the English Premier League. Reading face Birmingham on the final day of Championship action and a win for either side would clinch automatic promotion – however, Sheffield United are still also in the race.

Tonight’s result leaves Norwich in grave jeopardy as they face relegation to the third tier of English football. Gary Doherty and the on loan Alan Lee lined out for Norwich while Dave Mooney was ineligible as he is on loan from Reading.

Kevin Doyle was available again after injury for Reading but was an unused substitute. Long was joined in the Reading team by first half substitute Stephen Hunt.

Another Irish player in serious danger of suffering relegation this season is Damien Duff. He also played on Monday night as Newcastle did little to aid their plight – a 0-0 home draw with Portsmouth leaving them mired in the relegation zone.

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