United’s FA Youth Cup run came to an end at the 3rd Round Qualifying stage, as Reading City ran out 5-2 winners in Berkshire.
With the wet weather putting paid to last week’s clash in Devon, the switch to Reading’s Rivermoor Stadium gave the home side added impetus, and in the end it City who progressed through to the First Round Proper, where they will host The Gulls’ Devon rivals, Exeter.
Things started perfectly for Kevin Wills’ side, with Jacob Wellington continuing his recent good form to put Torquay a goal up on 14 minutes.
Unfortunately that joy was to prove short-lived, as two goals in quick succession from Madono and Emery saw Reading turn the game on its head by the midway point, and that was the way it remained until the break.
The second half saw the Young Gulls punished further however, with further strikes from Mansaray and Forde putting City in charge in the dying stages.
Although an injury-time penalty from Tom Chastey temporarily reduced the arrears, another strike from Madono wrapped up proceedings in Reading’s favour moments later.
A disappointing night for sure, but United’s youngsters can hold their heads up high after another spirited performance – and there will no doubt be brighter days ahead for this talented group.
United’s Starting XI: 1. Will Howard, 2. Charlie Wills, 4. Harvey Coggins, 7. Jack Kennel, 8. Mason Elliot, 9. Tom Castey, 10. Gene Price, 11. Kai Swann, 12. Ethan O’Sullivan, 17. Andrew Ellis, 18. Jacob Wellington.
Substitutes: 5. Liam Poole, 14. Riley Crawford, 15. Ashton Ballard, 16. Will Brennan, 23. Luke Adams.