The highest scoring game in Premier League history saw Pompey striker Benjani score two to put the south coast club in control in the first half. Hunt pulled one back for Reading on half time and then early in the second half the obligatory moment of madness from David James gifted Kitson, and Reading, an equaliser.

Hreidarsson then restored Portsmouth's lead before James made amends, saving a Reading penalty. Benjani secured his hat-trick with 15 minutes left and, Kranjcar then made it six before Long grabbed a goal for Reading to give them a glimmer of hope.

That was extinguished when Muntari scored a penalty in injury time, although there was still time for Shorey to score a fourth for Reading.