Cardiff Earns Championship Promotion with Victory Over Reading

Cardiff City has clinched promotion back to the Championship following a decisive 3-1 victory over Reading. The win was sealed after an extraordinary last-minute equalizer by Exeter's Jack Bycroft against Stockport, ensuring all of Cardiff's promotion rivals failed to secure a win. As a result, Cardiff has achieved an immediate return to the second tier, bouncing back from their relegation last season. Head coach Brian Barry-Murphy expressed his elation, stating, 'It means the world. I've had the privilege of working with an incredibly ambitious group of players who have consistently delivered exceptional performances.' The team's captain, Rubin Colwill, scored the opening goal with a well-directed header in the 40th minute, giving City a 1-0 lead at halftime. Omari Kellyman then doubled their advantage 10 minutes into the second half. Although Daniel Kyerewaa reduced the deficit in the 73rd minute, defender Perry Ng sealed the win with a superb angled effort from 20 yards, four minutes from the end. The victory was further confirmed by Exeter's dramatic equalizer, which ensured Cardiff's promotion at the first attempt. The match saw Reading start strongly, with Jeriel Dorsett and Kyerewaa creating early scoring opportunities. However, Colwill's goal gave Cardiff the breakthrough, and Kellyman's calm finish added to their lead. The hosts briefly reduced the deficit when Kyerewaa netted after Cardiff keeper Nathan Trott parried Lewis Wing's powerful free-kick. Ultimately, Ng's goal settled the issue, sparking wild celebrations among Cardiff's 2,935 fans.