The Premier League side prevailed thanks to striker Leroy Lita's extra-time goal and Aussie keeper Adam Federici's cleansheet, but that only told half the story of a 1-0 victory.

Defender Sam Sodje was sent off in the 58th minute, leaving Reading to scrap for their lives against committed and quality opponents.

But when Lita, making his first start of the season, nudged home Dave Kitson's cross there was no way back for the home side, whose poor finishing ultimately cost them dear.

A relieved Coppell said: "We wanted to be through to the next round and I think that showed tonight.

"We had a desire to be in the next round - we wanted to get through.

Coppell labelled the second yellow card brandished by referee Kevin Friend to Sodje as "outrageous" but also paid tribute to Lita and Kitson.

Coppell added: "They both did terrifically well and you like healthy competition in all positions."

While Reading march on, Swansea were left to reflect on a succession of missed opportunities that culminated in Paul Anderson hitting the bar during extra time.

Anderson said: "We were on top for pretty much all of the game, but I want to apologise to the fans because we just couldn't finish things off.

"Against a Premiership side we were on top for most of the 120 minutes, and no disrespect to Reading who are a quality side, we probably should have beaten them comfortably.

"This squad is so strong, certainly strong enough to push on in the league and hopefully gain promotion."

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