McDermott hails match-saver McCarthy

NPOWER CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND-UP

Reading boss Brian McDermott praised Alex McCarthy after the goalkeeper made a string of fine saves to earn his side a 0-0 draw at Leeds last night.

Leeds turned in their best performance for weeks to halt Reading's eight-game winning run, but were denied by the woodwork and two saves from man-of-the-match McCarthy.

The draw kept Reading in fourth place in the Championship table, while Nottingham Forest's 3-2 win over Leicester earlier in the day meant Leeds dropped out of the play-off spots on goal difference.

And McDermott admitted it was England U21 international McCarthy who had kept the Yorkshire side out.

"He pulled one out of the top corner in the first half," said McDermott. "It was a fabulous save and one at the end there as well. He's a really good young goalkeeper and we're blessed with good goalkeepers at our club."

Grayson was encouraged by his team's showing, saying: "It's still up for grabs. We said a few weeks ago when we were in (the play-off) positions, there will be twists and turns."

Forest manager Billy Davies made no apology for the huge slice of luck which saw his side see off the Foxes.

Captain Paul McKenna struck in the 84th minute to give Forest victory, but his shot was fumbled into the net by Foxes goalkeeper Chris Weale.

Davies said: "We haven't had much luck this season but we have seen a bit of fortune for once with the winner."

At the other end, Scunthorpe remained three points from safety as they drew 1-1 at Coventry, while Crystal Palace drew 0-0 at Doncaster.