Neither side could find a winner as they both slipped further behind leaders Huddersfield.

Reading defender Josh Knight made a brilliant block to deny Aribim Pepple after a pinpoint cross from Xavier Amaechi in the ninth minute.

Striker Kyreece Lisbie missed a golden opportunity to put Reading ahead in the 16th minute, firing wide after rounding goalkeeper James Storer.

Will Evans headed just wide from another superb Amaechi cross and Argyle skipper Joe Edwards sent a thumping volley just wide in the 41st minute.

In the second half, Randell Williams’ first-time shot from a well-worked Reading corner routine flew just over the crossbar thanks to a crucial Tyreeq Bakinson touch.

Evans produced a scorching 30-yard effort that had to be tipped over by Royals keeper Joel Pereira in the 65th minute while at the other end Reading skipper Lewis Wing went close with a dipping shot.