Reading 1 Aston Villa 2: Steve Bruce off mark as Jordan Ayew clinches last gasp Villa win
New boss breathes sigh of relief after Reading battle back through Yann Kermorgant to level Jonathan Kodjia opener
SUB Jordan Ayew blasted in a late penalty to give Steve Bruce his first victory with Villa.
There was little more than a minute left when Ayew — brought down by Liam Moore — stepped up.
Spot king...Jordan Ayew slots home the late Villa winner
Jonathan Kodjia had earlier given Bruce a massive tonic with his 38th-minute strike.
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With Jaap Stam in charge at Reading, it gave Bruce the edge in this battle between two Manchester United legends.Bruce was looking for Villa’s first win in 11 games but he saw his side pegged back by Yann Kermorgant’s 54th-minute equaliser.
Reading pinned Villa down early on but the visitors snatched the lead when Albert Adomah’s cross set up Kodjia, who netted with a deflected shot.
Royals drew level in dramatic fashion.
Garath McCleary was fouled by Aly Cissokho and referee Andy Woolmer pointed to the spot. Danny Williams saw his effort pushed away by keeper Pierluigi Gollini.
But striker Kermorgant was there to head in the rebound.