Reading and Queens Park Rangers have struggled to create chances in an uneventful goalless first half at the Madejski Stadium.

Much of the early stages saw the two sides battling in midfield, before a set piece produced the first opportunity of the game when Michael Hector headed wide after connecting with Oliver Norwood's inviting free kick at the back post.

Reading often looked the more threatening of the two teams, but the hosts struggled to find a way through the QPR defence due to some questionable decisions on the ball in attacking areas.

A moment of hesitation from Alex Fernandez offered QPR an opening when Junior Hoilett won the ball out wide before shooting straight at Ali Al-Habsi.

As both teams continued to find it difficult in attacking areas, a Reading break saw a loose ball break for Andrew Taylor, whose 25-yard half-volley sailed over the crossbar.