Reading got more than expected in their first ever Premier League appearance. After securing a promotion in the 2006-07 season, winning matches against top-notch teams would have been equivalent to winning the League for the Royals. But to everyone's surprise, the Premiership debutants finished in eighth place. As a reward for his efforts Steve Coppell was named the 'Manager of the year' last season. In the club's first league game, Reading won a 3-2 thriller against Middlesbrough after being down 0-2. The Royals proved themselves as a worthy opposition by drawing games with Manchester United and former champions Chelsea, and big wins over West Ham United. Striker Leroy Lita who was ably partnered by Kevin Doyle played a major role in Reading's successful season by netting 14 and 13 goals respectively. A 3-3 away draw against Rovers on the last day meant Reading missed a UEFA Cup spot by just 1 point. With Steve Sidwell’s move to Chelsea and a paltry investment by manager Steve Coppell, the Royals have a tough task ahead of replicating the high standards set by them the previous season. The critics who have been terming their maiden triumph as a flash in the pan need to be shunned.
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