Reading v Rotherham: Bowery red card rescinded

Bowery has this afternoon had the red card he received for the apparent kick at Middlesbrough’s George Friend rescinded and he can play tonight at Reading.

Prior to that decision, Evans - whose anger was directed at assistant referee Keith Lawson, an official the manager labelled as “pathetic” and not good enough to be officiating at that level - said: “The head of referees at the Football League, David Allison, called me yesterday and said he and the match referee send me their apologies for the decision.

“I excluded the referee on Saturday from any blame because he went on the instruction of an assistant referee.”

Evans went on to voice his concerns that Rotherham are the victims of stature in the eyes of some. “I don’t think some people in officialdom like me saying it – because they’ve told me they don’t – but the facts are we’re a small club in a big league, aren’t we?” he said.

“Some people don’t want us in there. We look at some of these decisions and, while we don’t question the integrity of anyone, we do go away shaking our heads.”

Evans has backed Matt Derbyshire to transform his fortunes in front of goal. The 28-year-old striker has not scored since the first week of the season. “He’s our best finisher by some distance. He has to believe it will turn,” said Evans.

Last six games: Reading DLLLWL, Rotherham WDWDDL.

Referee: P Miller (Bedfordshire).

Last time: Reading 1 Rotherham 0; August 21, 2004; Championship.