Match Preview: Reading vs Northampton Town

Match Overview

After two frustrating results, Reading are gearing up to face Northampton Town, who are currently battling against relegation. A poor showing against Lincoln City has left fans doubting what the Royals can realistically achieve this season—especially with the January transfer window looming and the potential for key players to leave. I’m still optimistic, but the team needs to start delivering results quickly.

Meanwhile, Northampton find themselves in 20th place after a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Charlton Athletic last weekend. However, with Kevin Nolan newly appointed as their manager, there’s a buzz around the Cobblers, and they might see this game as a chance to turn things around.

Kevin Nolan: The New Face at Northampton Town

Kevin Nolan is no stranger to football management. His career began at Leyton Orient in 2016, where he worked as a player-manager. He had a strong start, winning three of his first four games and earning a Manager of the Month nomination. However, his time at Orient was short-lived, as he was dismissed just a few months later.

He went on to manage Notts County, where he made an immediate impact by saving the team from relegation and leading them to a strong start the following season. Unfortunately, a poor run of form saw him lose his job there too. Most recently, he worked as a first-team coach at West Ham United before leaving earlier this year. Now, he takes charge of a struggling Northampton side, hoping to revive their fortunes.

Nolan was known as a player for his energy and leadership, which could be exactly what Northampton need right now. With their low position in the table and morale at rock bottom, his appointment might just be the spark they need.

Northampton’s Squad and Strategy

Despite losing a few key players in the summer, Northampton have added some solid signings, including former Royals players Nesta Guinness-Walker and Tariqe Fosu, as well as Cameron McGeehan. These additions should fit well into Nolan’s system, especially if he opts for a 3-4-3 formation.

Guinness-Walker could thrive as a wing-back, providing width and energy, while McGeehan could anchor the midfield. Pairing McGeehan with someone like William Hondermarck could create a balanced and dynamic partnership, giving the team more creativity going forward.

Reading’s Home Advantage

The Royals have two back-to-back home games this week, starting with Northampton and then hosting Mansfield Town. Reading’s form at the Select Car Leasing Stadium has been impressive this season, with 11 wins out of 13 matches. However, recent defeats to Blackpool and Leyton Orient show they’re not invincible at home.

This game against Northampton feels like a must-win to rebuild confidence, especially with tougher tests on the horizon. Mansfield, for example, have exceeded expectations this season and could pose a real threat at the weekend.

For Reading to succeed, Noel Hunt needs to establish a consistent playstyle. The constant changes in tactics haven’t worked, and it’s time for him to settle on a system that gets the best out of the squad. Home matches are crucial for keeping the fans on side and building momentum heading into the new year, which might bring challenges like player departures.

Score Predictions

My prediction: Reading 2 – 1 Northampton

Dad’s prediction: Reading 2 – 2 Northampton

Let’s hope for a positive result to end the year on a high!