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Reading 0-0 Newcastle: Magpies leave the door open for rivals after failing to break down stubborn Royals

Newcastle United saw their lead at the top of the Championship cut to three points on Tuesday night as play-off chasing Reading secured a 0-0 draw against the Magpies at the Madejski Stadium.

Matt Ritchie came closest to breaking the deadlock when he struck the post in the first-half, while Garath McCleary also went close for the hosts with two deflected drives.

Rafa Benitez's side pushed for a late winner but were made to settle for just a point, while closest rivals Brighton took full advantage with victory over Rotherham.

More to follow....

Newcastle were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Reading on Tuesday night
Newcastle were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Reading on Tuesday night
Jamaal Lascelles grimaces during a disappointing first half of football at the Madejski Stadium
Jamaal Lascelles grimaces during a disappointing first half of football at the Madejski Stadium
Newcastle midfielder Jonjo Shelvey takes a shot under pressure from Joey van den Berg
Newcastle midfielder Jonjo Shelvey takes a shot under pressure from Joey van den Berg
Reading goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi almost loses the ball with Ayoze Perez ready to pounce
Reading goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi almost loses the ball with Ayoze Perez ready to pounce
Reading boss Jaap Stam watches on from the sidelines during a frustrating first half
Reading boss Jaap Stam watches on from the sidelines during a frustrating first half
Reading defender Liam Moore sprays his face with water on Tuesday night
Reading defender Liam Moore sprays his face with water on Tuesday night
Yoan Gouffran is unable to stab the ball into the goal under pressure from Paul McShane
Yoan Gouffran is unable to stab the ball into the goal under pressure from Paul McShane
Reading defender Tyler Blackett is beaten to the ball by Newcastle forwardu00a0Daryl Murphy
Reading defender Tyler Blackett is beaten to the ball by Newcastle forward Daryl Murphy
Rafa Benitez's side remain top of the Championship although their lead is cut to three points
Rafa Benitez's side remain top of the Championship although their lead is cut to three points