Dario Gradi was pleased with the performance of our debutant Simon Church and has challenged the Reading teenager to continue in the same vein. The 18-year-old striker worked tirelessly upfront against Luton and was involved in both goals, scored by his strike partner Ryan Lowe.

Church, who has joined us on a one-month loan from the Premier League side will now take on even greater responsibility upfront following the news that Lee Barnard will be sidelined for at least six weeks with ankle ligament damage. Lowe is also struggling with a whack on his calf, but the club have been boosted by the news that the former Shrew has an outside chance of making the weekend trip to Cheltenham.

Church is relishing the chance to showcase his potential in competitive action and the vastly experienced Gradi was delighted with his hardworking display at the weekend.

Dario told crewealex.net: "Simon worked very hard and led the line well enough. He helped create both goals, especially the second one where it was his pass, which put Ryan (Lowe) through on goal.

"We have struggled up front all season and have needed someone up there with a bit of size. Simon has got that and is stronger than you would think. He won a number of flick-on's and was a mobile target for us.

"Simon looks to be a good all round player. He isn't outstanding at anything but he is good at everything and that makes him a very good acquisition for us. He will be useful for us, if he can play like he did on Saturday.

He added: "Considering it was his league debut, I thought he did very well and could be pleased with his contribution."