Reading looks to close the Championship gap this week with two points separating them from their opponents Bournemouth. The match schedules for Friday at Madejski Stadium with a kickoff at 11 pm.
The Royals are currently fifth on the table standings after putting together a five-match unbeaten streak. On the other hand, the Cherries slipped to sixth in the league after failing to win any of their last three games.
Reading supporters started off their season on a low note that marked a slow start to the season. However, Veljko Pauvonic and his Royals deserve huge credit for getting back on track. Since Boxing Day, the side has gained 11 points from their last five games.
It was a disappointment for Reading as they lost to Luton Town in the FA Cup. The main attention turns to qualifying for the playoffs. A win this Friday will go a long way in strengthening their strength on the top-six finish.
Lucas Joao proved a major talisman for the side with eight goals from their last ten matches since November. Jason Tindall will also feel the same way when it comes to Jack Wilshere, who netted his first goal in the FA Cup to win over Crawley Town on Tuesday night. Tindall will be desperate to keep fit the midfielder for the second-half campaign.
Reading vs. Bournemouth Head to Head
Both sides have six games against each other, with Reading taking home 0 wins while Bournemouth with five wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Preston North End 0-0 Reading
Reading 3-0 Coventry City
Luton Town 1-0 Reading
Huddersfield Town 1-2 Reading
Swansea City 0-0 Reading
Away
Bournemouth 2-1 Crawley Town
Derby County 1-0 Bournemouth
Bournemouth 1-0 Luton Town
Bournemouth 1-1 Millwall
Oldham Athletic 1-4 Bournemouth
Reading Team News
Pauvonic looks more likely to maintain the same starting XI that secured a goalless draw against Preston North End. However, Alfa Semedo and Michael Olise are pushing for recalls after the Royals failed to find the back of the net.
Bournemouth Team News
Despite pushing for a recall to the side, it remains a doubt whether Jack Wilshere will start over Jefferson Lemina. Adam Smith and Dominic Solanke should get the nod over Stacey King and Josh King.
Prediction and Odds
Bournemouth might cherish a place in the FA Cup but are less prepared to take on their opponents.
Draw
Both Teams to Score
Goals Under 2.5
