Reading boss Steve Coppell sympathised with Fulham after the decision to dismiss Ian Pearce during the Premiership newcomers' 1-0 win at Craven Cottage.

Pearce brought down Kevin Doyle on the edge of the six-yard area and the Republic of Ireland striker slotted in the 17th-minute penalty for Reading's third win in a row.

Coppell felt referee Dermot Gallagher had no option but to dismiss the defender but said: "The game obviously lost its thread when the decision was made. The poor old referee - the law is the law but the law is an ass in this situation."