Derby (H) Match Preview

After Sunday’s disappointing cup exit, its time to focus on the league and an important clash with relegation rivals Derby. The Rams have pulled away from the bottom of the table in recent weeks thanks to some good results, however the Royals are in fine form at home and will be keen to add to a run of 15 points from 18 at the Madejski Stadium. A full match preview is here…..

Vital Quotes:

Reading manager Brian McDermott –

‘You want to watch games where there is plenty of action with teams playing on the front foot and trying to win. I want my players to go out and perform to the best of their ability like they did against Aston Villa.’


Midfielder Brian Howard said –

‘I owe Derby one after breaking my jaw, hopefully I will be fit to take my place in the team.’

Reading Team News:

Winger Jobi McAnuff serves the final game of his suspension following a red card at West Brom. Brian McDermott is set to revert to a 4-4-2 formation with Simon Church or Grzegorz Rasiak partnering Shane Long upfront.

Brian Howard has been suffering with Flu but should be fit to play, whilst Zurab Kizhanishvili will return after being cup tied for the Villa game.

Player to watch: Shane Long

Was in wonderful goal scoring form before his 4 game suspension, and continued where he left off with 2 goals on Sunday against Aston Villa. He will be keen to make up for his red card at Pride Park and shoot down the Rams.

Derby Team News:

The ever popular Derby captain Robbie Savage is set to shake of a knock to play, as is defender Shaun Barker. Jay McEveley is likely to return at left back after serving a suspension meaning Dean Moxey will drop out. Rob Hulse is a doubt with a hamstring injury.

Player to watch: Michael Tonge

The former Sheffield United midfielder jumped out of his sick bed to score the first goal in the vital 2-0 win over Watford at the weekend, and will be keen to continue his good form during a loan spell from parent club Stoke.

Last Meeting

21st November 2009, Derby 2-1 Reading. Pride Park

Ref Watch:

Kevin Wright will take charge of this one. He last reffed the Royals against Blackpool in April 2009, a 2-2 draw at Bloomfield Road.

Match Prediction:

Our home form has been so impressive, despite the defeat to Villa in the cuo. I’m backing us to get another three points in a comfortable home win, 3-0.

Next Fixture:

Saturday 13th March 2010, Bristol City (H)