Reading v Fulham - Preview

[_mostlybobbins]

Reading go into the fixture against lowly Fulham with much confidence after a surprising, yet always welcome away win against Middlesbrough. Whilst even this writer wrote off the Royals chances of pulling off any kind of result with a team that is still decimated by injuries, they scored an early goal and rode their luck, but still came away with the three points. Now after the international break which is usually not so welcomed by the managers after a win, Reading have had time for a few of the injuries to progress and whilst some may not figure for the weekend, they are closer to recovery. With no further injuries reported from the international fixtures, Reading go into the game in a positive manner. Also, they will likely give a debut to on loan signing Glenn Murray from Crystal Palace.

Fulham, newcomers to the Championship, have found the adjustment in terms of the physicality and no small amount of player turnover to be a difficult one. Standing next to bottom in the division with -7 goal difference, the Cottagers have yet to find their feet and continue to frustrate manager, Felix Magath. A loss to Reading in this game will certainly not help his position, should that come to pass. After a home 1-1 draw with Cardiff, Fulham are without a point, let a lone a win, from their away fixtures thus far. Fulham may give a debut to Matt Smith, signed from Leeds in the transfer window.

With Reading buouyant, I see a home win in the offing. 3-1 to the Royals.