23 January 2024 , 18:12
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Reading will have to replay their match with Port Vale in full after the original contest was abandoned when home fans invaded the pitch to protest the ownership of the club, while the Royals have also been hit with a suspended three-point deduction.
Supporters took to the field after just 16 minutes at the Madejski Stadium on January 13. The points deduction will last across the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons and be triggered if the club's supporters cause disruption such that a match is postponed or abandoned.
The EFL say they 'recognise the ongoing challenges for the Club and its supporter base and notes the views expressed at the supporter meeting held with the EFL last week in respect of imposing further immediate points deductions on the Club'. If the suspended points deduction is triggered, it will become active immediately.
Reading have also been tasked with coming to an agreement with Port Vale over compensation for the expenses the latter incurred in relation to the abandoned clash. However, Reading have also confirmed that an FA investigation is ongoing and could result in a significant financial penalty.
In addition to Reading's punishment, the EFL also revealed they have sanctioned club owner Dai Yongge. He has repeatedly failed to deposit an amount equal to 125% of the Club’s forecast monthly wage bill in a designated bank account.
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Yongee missed his January deadline meaning he has been in default for almost four months and has breached decisions in August and December after an order by the independent Disciplinary Commission. He has further being charged with bringing the club and/or league into disrepute as a result. The two charges will go to an Independent Disciplinary Commission.
The Berkshire side will see the match replayed on Tuesday February 20 at 8pm. They will provide three options for those who had tickets for the original game. Supporters will be able to keep their tickets and they will remain valid for the rescheduled fixture.
(JASONPIX)Otherwise, those who were in attendance will be able to swap their ticket for another home match this season. If neither of those accommodations suit, a full refund will be provided. The latter two choices must be indicated by 5pm Monday 19th February.