The Hatters went down to a defeat at Reading despite coming back from 2-0 down at one stage at the Madejski Stadium.

Trailing to goals from Lewis Wing, from the penalty spot, and former Town striker Jack Marriott, Jack Wilshere’s side rallied and were on level terms with 15 minutes still to play.

Firstly, Jordan Clark, on his first start since the win at Northampton in October, poked home to reduce the deficit shortly before the hour following Shayden Morris’ cross.

And the comeback was complete when Nigel Lonwijk struck his first goal in Town colours with a thunderous hit from 25 yards.

You felt at that stage with the momentum all with the Hatters they might find a winner, but Reading had other ideas and substitute Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan restored the Royals’ lead with 12 minutes to play when finishing smartly past Josh Keeley.

It was harsh on the Hatters who had dominated for long spells. However, despite seven minutes of added time, the closest they came to an equaliser was when George Saville saw a shot hit the side netting and the Town were left to reflect on a first defeat after four games unbeaten in League One.

The Hatters are back in action on Boxing Day when Wycombe Wanderers visit Kenilworth Road.

Town: Keeley, Lonwijk, Bramall, Naismith (sub Morris 45+1), Andersen, Mengi, Walsh (sub Saville 86), Fanne (sub Nelson 86), Clark (sub Brown 64), Kodua, Wells (sub Yates 64).

Subs not used: Shea, Makosso.

Attendance: 9,252 with 1,101 backing the Town.