It was the second time in under a year that the Hammers had been beaten by Reading, last September a thrilling penalty shoot-out after a goalless match went the Royals way.
The Upton Park side still have two weeks until their season begins but they will have to buck up their ideas, a Hammers defence which featured experienced internationals such as James, Dailly Repka and Winterburn must do better if they are to make an impact on the Premiership this year.
Following the defeat West Ham supremo Glenn Roeder said:"I thought Reading played really well, some good passing football. I hope they have a good season in the First Division because thats the type of football that entertains people."
An angry Roeder then added: "I'm concerned at the manner in which we let in the goals. It was disappointing.
"In the beginning we carved them apart, but then we let ourselves down from set plays. We will have to go back to the training ground and work on them."