READING FC Women have been knocked out of the Women's FA Cup after a 1-0 loss at Manchester City Ladies.

Kelly Chambers' Royals faced a tall order on their return to action after a near six-month lay-off as they took on last season's undefeated WSL 1 champions who had shipped a mere four goals on their way to winning the title.

But City did not have it all their own as they found Royals keeper Mary Earps in inspired form.

The England stopper made a number of vital saves to keep the score level and also kept out a 65th minute penalty from Georgia Stanway.

Reading also threatened to break the deadlock through substitute Lauren Bruton, but it was City who snatched the winner seven minutes from time when England international Lucy Bronze fired home from the edge of the box.

Despite their early cup exit, Chambers was pleased with the performance of her side which saw new signings Mandy Van Den Berg, Anna Green, Rachel Furness and Brooke Chaplen all make their debuts.

Chambers said: “They put in a great shift and have already gelled with the team. It looks really promising and there is a lot to be excited about.

“I thought the performance was outstanding. To be nine weeks into our pre-season and to play like that was excellent from every single player.

“Now I’m looking forward to the start of the league and to competing for places higher up the table.”

Chambers also singled out Earps for special praise, saying: “Mary was outstanding, she made some fantastic saves and kept us in the games at times.

“It was also nice to see girls who have had injuries get out on to the pitch. Lauren Bruton and Remi Allen came on and made changes to the game, but Mary was outstanding.”

Reading's next fixture is a trip to newly-promoted Bristol City at Ashton Gate on April 22.