Managers post match comments after draw at Reading

Last updated : 14 May 2011 By Michael Morris

jones123"Craig is a quality player so he would make a big difference for us but we will have to wait and see how he is in the morning," Jones said.

"He came off straight away but he is an experienced player who knows his body.

"He has missed games during the season and we have players who can replace him if needs be.

"It's a shame he came off but we haven't given up hope that he can play again for us yet."

The first half descended into a flurry of fouls as both sides struggled to reach their best form and Jones expects another tough clash in the second leg on Tuesday night.

He said: "It was a battle. There were tackles flying in, pushing and shoving but neither goalkeeper has had much to do.

"It was niggly in the tunnel and continued from there.

"We nullified each other to a degree but this is a tough place to come.

"I told the players that we couldn't win the tie tonight but we could certainly lose it and we defended very well when we needed to.

"We competed well and I think it will be the same again in the second leg.

"It will be whoever gets the break on the night."

Reading boss Brian McDermott insisted his side would have no fear when they travel to Wales for the second leg.

The Royals never hit top gear as they failed to test Stephen Bywater in the Cardiff goal but they could have winger Jimmy Kebe back from a thigh strain next week.

"All four games I've had against Cardiff have been a draw and there were two honest sides having a right go against each other," McDermott said.

"I'm pleased with the spirit and desire but there was nothing in the game.

"It was tight but there will be a result on Tuesday night one way or another.

"We will go there on the front foot and go for the win, we will play the game and not the occasion and whatever will be will be.

"We have no fear no matter what is at stake."