Phantom goal chaos: Reading and Watford share bizarre 2-2 draw

Reading and Watford played out one of the strangest matches in Championship history, with a phantom goal, two comebacks and a late penalty deciding a 2-2 draw. The controversial incident came early in the match when Reading were awarded a goal that appeared impossible. Stephen Hunt’s corner was contested at the near post by Noel Hunt and Watford defender John Eustace, with the ball bouncing across the byline several yards wide of the goal. Noel Hunt hooked the ball back into play, Andre Bikey headed towards goal and Watford goalkeeper Scott Loach made a save — but assistant referee Nigel Bannister had already raised his flag. The signal was interpreted as a goal rather than a corner, leaving players, officials and supporters stunned as referee Stuart Attwell awarded Reading the opener.