Match Preview: Stevenage vs Reading FC

Stevenage Borough Vs Reading FC

Saturday, 9 November 2024,

15:00 – League One

Venue: Lamex Stadium

This Saturday, Stevenage take on Reading FC in a League One clash at the Lamex Stadium. Both teams will be looking to secure three points, and with both sides having their own struggles this season, the game could go either way.

Form Guide

Starting with the basics, Reading sit 9th in the League One table with 22 points, while Stevenage are further down in 15th with 17 points. Despite the gap in the table, neither team has found consistency, so a lot will depend on which version of each side shows up on the day.

Stevenage have been struggling recently, with just one win in their last five matches across all competitions. They lost three of these games and managed a draw, but that was in the cup rather than the league. Stevenage have also lost their last two home league games, so they’ll be really hoping not to make it three in a row – something that hasn’t happened since April 2022, when they lost five in a row at home.

In contrast, Reading have been in strong form lately, winning four of their last five league games. But there’s a catch – their away form has been poor. They’ve only won once away all season, against Exeter, and lost four of their last five away matches, conceding 15 goals during that time. So while Reading have shown they can win, they’re still vulnerable on the road.

Head-to-Head

This is only the third time Stevenage and Reading have faced each other in the EFL. Reading won both of last season’s fixtures without conceding a single goal, which will give them a psychological edge. Reading will also be aiming to win their first two away league games against a single opponent for just the sixth time in their history. They last achieved this against Burton Albion in 2017 and 2018.

However, it’s important to remember that Stevenage will be fighting to turn their season around and break this losing streak. Despite their recent struggles, they’ll be determined not to let Reading come in and walk away with all three points, especially after losing those two games last season.

Defensive Struggles and Shooting Stats

One of the key stats coming into this game is each team’s defensive record. Stevenage have conceded 15 goals so far this season, while Reading have conceded 20. Reading’s higher total shows how their away performances have let them down, especially since they’ve shipped a significant portion of those 20 goals in recent away games.

On the attacking side, Stevenage have managed 95 shots this season, with 48 of them on target. Reading, however, have taken 101 shots, with 52 on target, showing they’ve been more productive in front of goal. Reading’s slightly better shot count and accuracy could give them the edge, especially if Stevenage’s defence isn’t able to keep them out.

Passing Accuracy

Passing accuracy also tells an interesting story. Stevenage have a passing accuracy of 66.86%, which shows they sometimes struggle to keep possession and link play effectively. Reading, meanwhile, boast a higher passing accuracy of 77.17%, which reflects their focus on a more controlled, possession-based style. This could give Reading a big advantage, especially if Stevenage give the ball away in dangerous areas, leaving themselves open to counter-attacks.

Injury News

Reading will be hopeful for a boost with the possible return of defender Jeriel Dorsett. He’s been out with an injury but started training with the first team this week. If Dorsett is fit enough to play, his return could strengthen Reading’s backline, which has been shaky away from home. However, striker Sam Smith remains an injury doubt after picking up a foot injury in last Saturday’s FA Cup match. Smith’s absence would be a blow for Reading, as they’ll miss his threat up front.

Stevenage, on the other hand, are dealing with their own injury worries, particularly in defence. With their recent struggles at the back, they’ll need to put in a strong performance to keep Reading’s attackers at bay. If Reading’s attack finds its rhythm, Stevenage could be in for a difficult afternoon.

Prediction

This game could go either way, but Reading might have a slight edge based on their recent form and Stevenage’s struggles at home. Despite Reading’s poor away record, they’ve shown they can create more chances and have been clinical in front of goal in recent games.

Reading’s weak away record might make this seem like a straightforward home win for Stevenage, but considering Stevenage’s poor recent form and their defensive issues, it might be the perfect time for Reading to capitalise and grab three points. If Reading can tighten up at the back and make the most of their chances, they stand a good chance of winning this match.

Given all of this, I predict a close game with Reading just edging it. My score prediction is Stevenage 1-2 Reading. Reading’s improved form and Stevenage’s recent struggles suggest that the Royals might just have enough to sneak a victory. However, Stevenage will certainly put up a fight, and with both teams needing points, it could be a tense game that goes right down to the wire.

Key Players to Watch

For Stevenage, their main focus will be on tightening their defence, but up front, their attacking players will need to make the most of any chances they get. If Stevenage can take advantage of Reading’s shaky away defence, they might be able to get on the scoresheet and make this an interesting game.

For Reading, it’s all about controlling possession and creating opportunities. Their better passing accuracy should help them dominate in the middle of the park, and if they can find the net early, it might be a long afternoon for Stevenage. Jeriel Dorsett, if he returns, will be a key figure in defence, while up front, Reading will be looking to whoever steps in for Sam Smith to make an impact.

Final Thoughts

This match is really about which team can make the most of the other’s weaknesses. Stevenage have struggled defensively, and if Reading can exploit that, they’ll be in with a good chance. However, Reading’s poor away form means that Stevenage will also fancy their chances.

All in all, it’s set up to be a competitive clash. Both teams have strengths they can use and weaknesses they’ll need to manage. Reading will be aiming to finally get some consistency away from home, while Stevenage will be desperate to stop their home losing streak. With both teams looking to improve, this could be a thrilling game for the fans at the Lamex Stadium.