Reading Football Club News: January 2021
Devastating First Half Defeats Bournemouth
29 January 2021
By Hob Nob Anyone?
A devastating first half performance gave Reading an unassailable half time lead over promotion rivals Bournemouth. There was a score to settle from their previous encounter this season when the Royals surrendered a two goal advantage to suffer a frustrating defeat. The transformation of Reading has been gradual since that fixture and their focus, energy, skill and organisation was simply too much for a strong Bournemouth side. Bournemouth made three changes at half time, but in spite of dominating possession, found Reading's defence a tough nut to crack. Courtesy of a basic defensive error from a free-kick the Cherries clawed a goal back but Reading closed the door on hopes of a comeback in the final phase of the game to achieve the victory their performance deserved.
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Reading Concentrate On The League
09 January 2021
By Hob Nob Anyone?
It was clear from the team selection of both managers where their priorities lie this season. In each case nine changes were made to the starting line-up for this Third Round FA Cup tie. Given Reading's dreadful run of injuries leading up to Christmas, Veljko Paunovic probably had more justification for resting most of his first choice players. Reading fans will no doubt be disappointed not to progress in the competition but they should be pleased with the performance of some of the young players drafted in for the game. Luton shaded the first half and scored a good goal, but the second half was a different story as Reading played some flowing passing football and certainly deserved at least to take the game into extra time. Read More...
Joao Gets Two On Return From Injury
02 January 2021
By Hob Nob Anyone?
Bolstered by the return of Lucas Joao, John Swift and Omar Richards to the starting eleven, Reading were in control of this tough away game for most of the match. In spite of going behind after only six minutes, The Royals came from behind to win the game with two superbly taken second half goals from Joao. Having won their previous five home games Huddersfield would have expected to take something from this game, but Reading, almost back to full strength, were solid at the back and carried much more of goal threat going forward than the home side. Read More...