Half-Time Report: Goalfest at Madejski, Manchester United lead 4-3

Seven goals were scored in the opening half at the Madejski Stadium in this evening's Premier League match, with Manchester United leading Reading 4-3.

The home side took the lead in the eighth minute when Jonny Evans could only clear to Hal Robson-Kanu, who lashed home from eight yards.

The Royals weren't ahead for long, however, as Anderson levelled for United five minutes later by exchanging passes with Ashley Young and beating Adam Federici at his near post.

United were ahead in the 16th minute when Wayne Rooney tucked home from the spot after Jay Tabb had needlessly brought down Evans.

© PA Photos

A fourth goal was scored before the 20-minute mark when Adam le Fondre was allowed too much space in the area to head home a corner.

Another set piece undid the visitors in the 23rd minute when Sean Morrison beat Evans in the air to put Reading ahead once more.

© PA Photos

United equalised again on the half-hour mark when Patrice Evra cut back for Rooney to smash home from eight yards and soon the league leaders were leading for a second time.

Rooney flicked a ball through for Robin van Persie who beat the offside trap and calmly slid home.

© PA Photos

The visitors should have had five before the interval but Van Persie's close-range effort wasn't awarded despite the ball visibly going over the line before Adrian Mariappa cleared.