Reading FC vs Bolton Wanderers – Match Preview
Date: Saturday, 1st February 2025
Kick-off: 3:00 PM GMT
Venue: Select Car Leasing Stadium, Reading
Introduction
Reading FC take on Bolton Wanderers in an exciting EFL League One clash at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. With both sides pushing for a place in the play-off positions, this promises to be a fiercely competitive encounter.
Reading, with an impressive 75% win rate at home, will be hoping to capitalise on their strong form in front of their fans. However, Bolton’s 46% win rate on the road proves they are more than capable of grinding out results away from home.
Historically, this fixture has been closely contested. In their last 15 meetings, Reading have won 4 times, Bolton 5, and 6 have ended in a draw. The last time these teams met in September, Bolton came out on top with a dominant 5-2 victory.
Current Form
| Team | Last 5 Matches | Goals Scored | Points Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 1W, 1D, 3L | 6 | 4 |
| Bolton | 2W, 1D, 2L | 8 | 7 |
Reading’s form has dipped in recent weeks, managing just one win in their last five outings. Their attack has struggled, especially following the departure of top scorer Sam Smith to Wrexham. Bolton, on the other hand, have been slightly more consistent, collecting seven points from their last five games. They have also scored in each of their last nine matches, making them a dangerous attacking side.
League Table Standings
| Position | Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Goal Difference | Points |
| 7th | Bolton Wanderers | 28 | 13 | 6 | 9 | +1 | 45 |
| 10th | Reading FC | 27 | 12 | 5 | 10 | +1 | 41 |
A win for Reading would see them leapfrog Bolton in the standings, making this a crucial match for both sides.
Key Players to Watch
Reading FC
- Harvey Knibbs – 8 goals this season, could possibly lead the line in the absence of Sam Smith.
- Charlie Savage & Lewis Wing – 4 goals each, with Wing also providing 6 assists.
- Benjamin Elliott – A creative force with 4 assists to his name.
Bolton Wanderers
- Aaron Collins – Joint-top scorer with 8 goals and 3 assists.
- John McAtee & Joel Randall – 6 goals each, adding strength to Bolton’s attacking line.
- Josh Cogley & Josh Sheehan – Key playmakers with 4 assists each.
Statistical Insights
- Goals Expected: There’s a 96% probability of over 0.5 goals and 61% for over 2.5 goals.
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS): This has landed in 67% of past meetings between the sides.
- Corners: The game is likely to see over 8.5 corners, with Bolton averaging 7.42 per match.
- Bolton’s Strength: The Trotters have scored in every match in their last nine outings.
- Reading’s Home Form: They’ve won 9 of their 12 home matches this season, making them a tough opponent at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Head-to-Head Record vs Bolton Wanderers
| Games won: | 14 |
| Games drawn: | 10 |
| Games lost: | 16 |
(Last 5 Meetings)
| Date | Match | Result | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 Aug 2018 | Reading v Bolton Wanderers | L | 0-1 | League Championship |
| 29 Jan 2019 | Bolton Wanderers v Reading | D | 1-1 | League Championship |
| 16 Sep 2023 | Reading v Bolton Wanderers | W | 2-1 | League One |
| 01 Apr 2024 | Bolton Wanderers v Reading | L | 5-2 | League One |
| 21 Sep 2024 | Bolton Wanderers v Reading | L | 5-2 | League One |
Prediction
This match could go either way, but Reading’s strong home form might give them the edge. Bolton, however, have proven they can score consistently, and their ability to find the net in tight games could make things difficult for the Royals.
Score Predictions:
- My Prediction (10-year-old perspective): 2-1 to Reading – “I think the boys will pull it together in front of their own fans and get a result. Sam Smith will be missed, but hopefully, someone steps up!”
- Dad’s Prediction: 2-2 – “A tough game, and Sam Smith’s absence will hurt us. I’d take a draw, but we need to find some form soon!”
Whatever happens, this promises to be an exciting fixture that could have a big impact on the League One promotion race!
