Williams is still the daddy for Johnson

BRISTOL CITY boss Lee Johnson described Ashley Williams as “the daddy” of his developing side after seeing their unbeaten run stretch to 10 games.

Famara Diedhiou’s well-placed header from 10 yards after 12 minutes, after he was left unmarked to meet a Niclas Eliasson cross, proved to be enough for the hosts to maintain their encouraging start.

But it was hard going, particularly in the second half when Reading, inspired by impressive midfielder Ovi Ejaria, poured forward in search of an equaliser.

City goalkeeper Dan Bentley made a fine first-half save to deny Yakou Meite and an equally good one at the death to keep out Lucas Boye’s low drive.

Johnson said: “When Ashley came to us I assured him that if I thought his legs had gone I would tell him.

“That isn’t the case and he has been a real leader for us.

“There were a lot of young players out there and in a way he is the daddy we rely on to help them with his experience.

“It wasn’t a classic performance but we have had a really draining week and on the back of two tough away draws I was really proud of the players.”

Reading boss Jose Gomes said: “We had a good chance with only the keeper to beat in the first half and when you don’t take those opportunities it is hard.

“We were the better team in the second half but again we have not made the most of our opportunities.

“Their goal was disappointing because we played with three centre-backs and had plans for dealing with Diedhiou.”