Reading are on form at the minute – three wins in the last four games – and are looking like a team again. Naturally, we once again meet Stockport County, who so often beat us. Will this time be any different? Probably not. But we have hope!
Stockport only managed a draw in their last game, against Northampton Town, but are still in the top four. A win would take them 10 points above Reading, which would make them very likely to be one of the favourites for that playoff spot once again this season.
The head-to-head between the two sides is in Reading’s favour with 11 wins, 14 draws and 10 defeats on the cards. The last game was a draw earlier in the season with Kyle Wootton getting the opener in the first half before Jack Marriott equalised in the second. The game ended 1-1 and it was one hell of a point away from home for the Royals.
In this preview I will mention the impact of the Royals’ front three and also how under-the-radar Andy Yiadom has been in the last few games, and I will give my predictions.
What? League One matchday 23
Where? Select Car Leasing Stadium
Opposition manager? Dave Challinor
Naturally, having Marriott back has been a God-send. A striker, finally.
He has been bagging goals repeatedly, but they’ve not only come from him. Also chipping in have been Lewis Wing, Daniel Kyerewaa and Randell Williams, and I hope it stays that way. In the last four games, the Royals have scored nine goals, including 4-1 and 3-2 wins.
But it is the defensive play that has impressed me. Specifically, Yiadom. After nearly a year out of the game he has been a rock at the back. The former captain has stepped up and proven that he deserves his spot.
Another player I am very impressed with is Kyerewaa. What a signing he has been. He will definitely be poached in the summer, but for the season we do have him, he is quality.
Joel Pereira will start in goal.
Yiadom, Paudie O’Connor, Finley Burns and Jeriel Dorsett will be the defence.
Liam Fraser, Wing and Kamari Doyle make up the midfield.
Matt Ritchie, Marriott and Kyerewaa will be the front three.
Good luck to those going to the game!
