Reading advanced to the first round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup following a penalty shootout victory against Richmond & Kew Women.

Pedro Bruno’s team had two victories in the elite Southern Region Women’s Football League, despite not earning a point since their voluntary relegation from the Championship.

A hard-fought 0-0 draw in West London was followed by a 3-2 shootout win to advance to the first round, only five years after reaching the semi-finals.

Mia Bradley put the ball in the net for Reading, but the offside flag ended any celebrations.

The Royals advanced when Mollie Dench, Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins, and Zuzanna Gajzler made successful penalty kicks.

Reading are yet to announce their opponents for the first round, but the games are set to take place on Sunday, November 3.

Reading return to the town for the first time since shifting operations to Slough on Sunday, when they face Caversham United in the Berkshire and Buckinghamshire Cup.

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