Match Preview: Reading vs Bristol Rovers – Saturday, 26th October

It’s another early kick-off for the Royals this Saturday as Reading take on Bristol Rovers at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in a 12:45 pm match, with the action being broadcast live on Sky Sports+. After a thrilling 2-1 away win at Exeter City last week, Reading will be hoping to carry that momentum into this clash and give their home fans something to cheer about.

Reading come into this game in good form, having bagged 14 goals in their last six matches. The attack has been on fire, with Sam Smith in particular standing out, scoring three goals in his last six league appearances. Smith has become a key player for Reading this season, and the fans will be eager to see him find the net again this weekend. The Royals have also been strong at home, winning five of their last six games at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

But while their attack has been impressive, Reading’s defense has been less reliable. With 11 goals conceded in the last six games, head coach Rubén Sellés will be keen to tighten things up at the back. Despite these defensive issues, Reading have still managed to score in five of their last six home matches, showing that even when they concede, they have the firepower to respond.

Bristol Rovers, on the other hand, are also coming off a victory, having beaten Shrewsbury Town 1-0 in their last outing. Rovers’ attack has been strong lately, with 11 goals in their last six matches, but much like Reading, they’ve struggled defensively, conceding 11 goals in the same period. They’ve also had a tough time away from home, losing four of their last six away games and managing just one win.

When it comes to head-to-head stats, Reading have the upper hand. In their last six meetings with Bristol Rovers, Reading are unbeaten, and they’ve managed to score in every one of those matches. The last time these two sides met, Reading came out on top with a 2-0 win, and they’ll be confident of a similar result this time around.

Both teams have shown they can score goals, but defensive frailties on both sides suggest that this could be an open and exciting game. With Reading’s solid home form and their strong attacking unit led by Sam Smith, they will be confident of picking up another three points. Reading boosted by Joel Pereira returning between the sticks on Tuesday, will be hoping he quickly returns to the form that made him a crowd favourite.  However, Bristol Rovers will be looking to build on their win last week and cause, what on paper to be a real upset in the predictions for the supporters and bookmakers.

Prediction: Reading 2-1 Bristol Rovers

Summary:
With Reading’s potent attack and Bristol Rovers’ shaky away form, the Royals will be looking to extend their winning run at home. Both teams have struggled defensively, so fans can expect an exciting match with plenty of chances. Reading should have enough firepower to edge this one, but Rovers won’t go down without a fight.

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