After five straight defeats in October, it was crucial that things improved in November to keep the club in the chasing pack.

Entering at the first round stage of the FA Cup for the first time in over 20 years, it was a record-low crowd as MK Dons and new boss Mike Williamson stood in the Royals’ way.

Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan and Alex Gilbey scored in an even first half, but the introductions of Harvey Knibbs and Lewis Wing swung the game in Reading’s favour. 

Max Dean’s stoppage time consolation made for a tense end, but ultimately the win set up a trip to non-league Eastleigh in the second round.

Still looking for the crucial league victory, Reading settled for a point against Bristol Rovers at the SCL Stadium, which was immediately followed by what looks to have been the nadir for the campaign.

Still looking for a first away victory in the league since November 2023, Sam Smith and Dom Ballard put the Royals two goals to the good at Shrewsbury Town.
Knibbs was dispposssed in his own penalty area and allowed Tom Bayliss to pull one back before the break, but it never looked like Ruben Selles’ side were going to not win in Shropshire.

Well, that was until stoppage time when goals from Chey Dunkley and Jason Sraha turned the match on its head and saw Reading snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

The defeat left Reading 10 points adrift at the foot of the League One table, with the supporters already consigned to playing fourth tier football in 2025.

Followed by a much-needed international break, the Royals were given a confidence boost when ensuring their passage into the knockout phase of the EFL Trophy with a 5-2 win over Arsenal Under-21s.

Almost 2,000 supporters travelled to nearby Buckinghamshire in hope more than expectation, but after 378 days Reading finally won away from home after a battling 2-1 victory over Wycombe Wanderers. 

The celebrations at Adams Park will live long in the memory for those in attendance, and not usually reserved for a narrow win when sat bottom of League One.

Ending the month with a flourish, Carlisle United were hit for five and positivity was beginning to grow as it was reported that new buyers were keen on acquiring the club.