Dave Tarpey cameo as Reading City swagger into FA Vase Second Round

Fast-forward to 2025 and Tarpey is taking his first steps in the managerial and coaching world as Assistant Manager to Simon Johnson at Reading City.

Working with a ‘legendary’ forward is undoubtedly a draw for players and the Cityzens are enjoying a best ever run in the Vase while aiming for a run at at least the Combined Counties League Premier Division North play-offs.

Tarpey announced his retirement in the summer following spells with Barnet, Bracknell Town, Woking and Hampton & Richmond Borough after rupturing his ACL along with other ligament damage.

On Saturday however, Tarps put his boots back on and made a five minute cameo for Reading as a replacement for Ousman Darboe.

Here’s how the City match report described it: “With minutes to go in additional time, a scramble in the box caused three shots from Emery and one from Tarpey, and four consecutive, excellent blocks from the visitors kept a fifth strike from crossing the line. The referee blew his whistle to signal the end of a great afternoon out for Johnson’s Cityzens, and history had been made for the club!”

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Following the FA Vase Second Round draw on Monday, Reading City will host Erith & Belvedere at The Rivermoor on the weekend of Saturday 8th November 2025.