After securing promotion back to the Premier League on Tuesday night against Nottingham Forest, Reading set their sights on winning the Championship as they face Crystal Palace. The Eagles haven’t won since the middle of March and have struggled in recent games.
Vital Quotes:
Reading manager Brian McDermott – ‘It’ll be interesting to see how the game pans out. I thought it was a real struggle the other night, we didn’t play very well on the night – it certainly wasn’t fluid. But in situations like that what you have to do is get over the line, and we’ve done that a few times. You do what you’ve got to do to get the results.’
Reading Team News:
It was revealed this week that winger Jimmy Kebe and Mikele Leigertwood have been playing through pain barriers in the past few games, meaning Brian McDermott could make some changes to the team. Winger Hal Robson-Kanu could be back, while Jay Tabb could also feature after a rib injury.
Player to watch: Mikele Leigertwood
The former Crystal Palace midfielder has arguably been one of the most consistent performers in recent games and scored the all important goal against Forest on Tuesday night.
Crystal Palace Team News:
Striker Glenn Murray could return to the team after illness kept him out of their 2-1 defeat to Portsmouth. Defenders David Wright and Anthony Gardner are definitely out of this game, while midfielders Jonny Williams and Mile Jedinak are out for the season.
Player to watch: Chris Martin
The on-loan Norwich striker has been a revelation at Selhurst Park, chipping in with some crucial goals as he did with the Canaries in the previous season.
Reverse fixture:
Crystal Palace 0 – 0 Reading
Ref Watch:
The referee for this game will be Andy D’Urso.
Match Prediction:
I’m sure Brian McDermott will remind the players the job is not done yet but with the Royals having more to play for, I can see only one result. 3-1 victory.
Next Fixtures:
Reading – Birmingham (A) – Saturday 28th April 2012 – nPower Championship
Crystal Palace – Cardiff (H) -Saturday 28th April 2012 – nPower Championship
