Football: Peterborough's hopes disappear after a minute

Peterborough's chances of earning a lucrative third-round tie in the Coca-Cola Cup disappeared after only a minute against Reading last night when Derek Payne was sent off. His violent lunge at Reading's Phil Parkinson brought an immediate red card from the referee, Roger Furnandiz.

The Third Division side had managed a 0-0 draw at Elm Park a week ago and had high hopes of progressing, but after Payne's dismissal Reading eased through. Carl Asaba finally put the First Division side ahead six minutes into the second half and Martin Williams then wrapped up a 2- 0 victory for Reading.

Ipswich, who like Reading have made a poor start to their First Division campaign, also avoided embarrassment last night. They had also been held to a goalless draw at home in the first leg, by Torquay United, but two goals by Matt Holland at Plainmoor last night set them up for a 3-0 victory.