The Royals get back to league action on Wednesday night with a trip to Crystal Palace. The Eagles has been dragged into the relegation dog fight courtesy of their 10 point penalty for going into administration, so a win will take us out of the relegation zone. A full match preview is here…..
Vital Quotes:
Striker Grzegorz Rasiak on his hopes for a first team recall for the suspended Shane Long-
‘Sometimes bad luck for one player, represents a chance for others. But we all support each other and everybody wants whats best for the team – its as simple as that.’
Crystal Palace Team News:
Experienced defender Matt Lawrence is hoping to return after a hamstring strain. Stern John, Lee Hills and Kieron Cadogan will be back after being cup tied for the draw with Aston Villa in the FA Cup at the weekend.
Player to watch: Darren Ambrose
Scored an absolute ‘worldy’ in the cup tie against Villa at the weekend, from full 35 yards out.Will be keen to add to his tally of 12 league goals so far this season.
Reading Team News:
Shane Long will be suspended following his red card against West Brom at the weekend, his second of the season. His place will be taken by Simon Church, who scored after coming off the bench in that cup tie.
Gylfi Sigurdsson is still struggling with a foot injury so could miss out again, meaning Jimmy Kebe should get another chance on the left.
Player to watch: Simon Church
His work rate and passing ability are wonderful, but he really must improve his finishing if he is to establish a regular starting place at the Mad Stad. He will be given his oppurtunity in Long’s absence, he must take it!
Last Meeting
Royals (Pearce, Sigurdsson)2-4 Crystal Palace (Clyne, Ambrose, Moses 2). 8th December 2009.
Ref Watch:
Mr D Whitestone will take charge of this fixture.
Match Prediction:
Palace proved at the weekend that they are a decent side, and despite the sale of Victor Moses they still have a number of match winners in their squad. This will be a tough game and I would settle for a point, 1-1.
Next Fixture:
Saturday 20th February 2010, Blackpool (A)
18th if we win tonight!!