Alex Pearce scored an own goal before conceding a penalty and getting sent off to help Cardiff City to a 2-0 lead over Reading at half time in the Championship.

Adam Le Fondre tried to open the scoring against his former club inside the first five minutes after Anthony Pilkington crossed the ball in, but the striker's header was just high.

David Marshall had to make a save down the other end a few minutes later, but Glenn Murray's low drive from outside the box failed to beat the keeper.

The hosts did take the lead though when Peter Whittingham curled a corner into the box, resulting in Pearce heading the ball past his own keeper.

Hal Robson-Kanu and Jordan Obita both had chances to get the Royals back on level terms, but Marshall saved shots from both to keep Cardiff in front.

Le Fondre was pushing again just before the break, but was brought down by Pearce in the box, earning the defender a straight red, and leaving Whittingham to fire the ball in from the spot with the final action of the half.