Weekend Preview: The Championship

Reading v Wolverhampton Wanderers

Reading have been quietly picking up points along the road this season without setting the world alight. In comparison Wolves have been flying this season and they sit 3rd, just a point behind leaders Nottingham Forest. This Sunday lunchtime kick off live on Sky Sports has the making of a Championship classic between two of the league’s big sides.

Reading v Chelsea - Pre Season FriendlyDefeat last week at Sheffield Wednesday ended a run of three successive wins for the Royals and after seeing a first half penalty saved by Wednesday keeper Kieran Westwood it was a case of what might have been for Nigel Adkins. Nevertheless, his side are positioned well within touching distance of the top six and just four points off of the top two. The loan signing of Glenn Murray has already proved a master-stroke from Adkins. The striker on loan from Crystal Palace has already scored twice and had an immeasurable impact on this young Reading squad. The Royals did exit the League Cup in midweek after a 2-0 defeat at Derby, but last week’s takeover by a Thai consortium makes it an exciting time for Reading as Adkins may have increased funds at his disposal to strengthen in January. For the time being he will look to forge a regular starting XI that can mix it with the best in the league. Avoiding three defeats in a week is of paramount importance for Reading and keeper Adam Federici could have a busy afternoon in-between the sticks if he can prove his fitness after picking up a calf injury. He is this game’s key man.

Wolves come into this game with a six game unbeaten run in the Championship and an opportunity to break into the top two if results go their way before they play on Sunday. Last weekend’s win over Bolton was a big three points for Wolves after successive draws at Charlton and Blackpool. Like surprise package of last season Burnley, Wolves have built their early success around a solid defence. The best in the league in fact, shipping just three goals from their eight games. This has been crucial as despite a range of creative options they have scored just eight goals. This compares to seventeen scored by the two teams above them in the table and is the joint fewest scored in the league by sides down to as low as 18th. Wolves have only dropped points away from Molineux taking five points from a potential twelve on the road. The one win on the road for Kenny Jackett’s side came at lowly Fulham and this a record that he will want to improve to maintain a position at the right end of the table.

Score prediction: 1-1 draw

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