READING'S promotion to the Premiership was confirmed with a draw at Leicester yesterday, with Irish international Kevin Doyle the hero of the hour. Doyle's closerange header for his 16th goal of the season sent Reading into the top flight for the first time in their history.

Leicester had taken a deserved lead against a lacklustre Reading with Iain Hume's powerful finish after being set up by Matty Fryatt.

Leicester might have stretched that lead when Joey Gudjonsson struck a post from a free-kick.

The home side made the better start in a scrappy opening which suggested the occasion may have got to Reading and it was no surprise when they took the lead, with Fryatt setting up Hume for a thumping finish from just inside the penalty area.

Reading offered little threat in the first half and they might have gone further behind when Gudjonsson struck the post with that beautiful free-kick.

The Championship leaders mustered a shot in the second half when Bobby Convey saw his effort saved by Paul Henderson. Leicester displayed the confidence that had seen them win their previous three Champioship matched to claw clear of the relegation dogfight. Gudjonsson illustrated that confidence with an outrageous attempt from all of 45 yards which Hahnemann saved with his legs.

Results involving Leeds and Watford meant Reading could have been promoted with a defeat. But the away side showed good spirit to rally and Doyle ghosted in to head the equaliser from six yards out for his latest goal in a remarkable season.