Reading manager Brendan Rodgers cut a frustrated figure after seeing his side emerge from their home clash against fellow strugglers Ipswich with a 1-1 draw.

Jon Stead's sweet ninth-minute strike gave the visitors an early advantage but Simon Church's involuntary finish just after the break sealed a point for the Royals. Although they were denied the chance to take all three late on when Shane Long was deemed not to have been fouled having come under contact in the area.

"It was a game we came into with big confidence but gave ourselves a mountain to climb by giving away a goal at the beginning. It was a stupid goal," said Rodgers. "I thought we should have had a penalty when Shane was brought down near the end. It's clear there was contact when you see the TV replay. You usually get those at home."

He added: "We had some really good moments in the first half but failed to capitalise. It's a frustrating end to a couple of good weeks."

Reading have now gone 16 league fixtures at the Madejski Stadium without a win and are the only league side who have yet to taste success in a home match this season. Their tally of 14 points from 16 matches also represents their worst start to a season for 22 years.