I really don't think this is a "must win" game for either side. If we lose (I don't think we will), we will still be three points ahead of West Ham if they beat Brighton (I think they will). That leaves us three games to get 6 points. That is a very achievable number. Same goes for Reading. If they lose, their next two games at ahome to Forest and Palace.... think they'll win those and then they only have to worry about a point against Birmingham or goal difference.
Yes I think it would have been really enjoyable if we both were destined to go up, although both teams are still in strong positions. I wasn't sure how Reading would respond this season to the losses of Long and Mills but once you had Gorkss and the addition of Roberts has propelled you along. I also thought as your squad was a little smaller that you may get tired but Peterborough aside this has not occurred. I think your chairman has done wonders with his managerial appointments, I cannot think of a bad one in recent times. Good luck to you guys and hopefully see you in the Prem next season. Ps I would definitely take a draw from the game.
FA have not announced the Referee yet, we need one that doesn't respond to Player pressure, Reading from what I have seen in recent games do tend to gang up when protesting.
from what I recall from the previous game, De Ridder seemed to cause them a few problems when he came on in the reverse fixture earlier in the season. More of the same from him this time with better finishing and i reckon Saints could nick this one 2-1
Southampton FC (First Team) v Reading FC (First Team) Football League Championship Referee: Dean, Michael Assistant Referee: Burt, Stuart Assistant Referee: Watts, Adam Fourth Official: Hooper, Simon Assessor: Reed, Michael
As a Reading fan, I'd gladly take a point from Fridays game. We weren't good last night and were fortunate to come away from Brighton with the three points. We have to improve on Friday because if we're not on our game, and if Lambert is up to his usual standard, we could get a pasting. Yes, a draw would be a good result for us.
If we lose and West Ham win, I will begin to twitch. I know we only need to win 2 games, but I want those as soon as possible.
Balls to the Champers. I may buy a big fat cigar to go along with a good brandy. Or a whisky. Actually, it may be just a slim panatella. Tbh, as an ex-smoker, I shouldn't consider buying anything like that. But cigars and dark spirits do make superb companions.
If they get enough free kicks around the box we will pay dearly. I have seen a lot of reading this year and an awful lot of goals come from him. Jason Roberts will get on the scoresheet too probably.
