MansionBet Match Preview: Reading (H)

In association with City's Principal Partner MansionBet, we take a closer look at the match...

City are trying to find way of the rut they find themselves in after a run of five losses in a row, and promotion-hopefuls Reading are up next after that 6-0 loss away at Watford.

A response is needed more than ever in terms of bouncing back after the show at Vicarage Road on Saturday.

The Hornets were on course for three points from as soon as the second minute when Ken Sema got their afternoon up and running.

A “horrible” day with an “unacceptable” performance was how Dean Holden described it after suffering the biggest loss of his early managerial career, but there is no time to stand still and point the finger as the next game quickly rolls around.

And Holden hopes his side will be fuelled up for the task, using that heavy defeat in Hertfordshire to their advantage.

Highlights: Watford v Bristol City

City will want to avoid repeat of last time they met Reading, who won 3-1 at the Madejski Stadium back in November.

City have recorded 15 points since, whereas Reading continue to fight for a play-off spot. The Royals have actually won six games in the Championship since, but have suffered only five losses in that time.

However, they do need to improve on recent form after a run of three games without a win and two consecutive defeats, after they twice threw away leading positions against Brentford and Millwall.

There are still concerns in the medical department too as Yakou Meite, who gave the Robins a torrid afternoon in the reverse fixture, is out of Tuesday’s game with a groin problem. John Swift (hamstring) is out until April and George Puscas (hernia), Liam Moore (foot) and Felipe Araruna (knee) are due back later in the month.

MATCH DETAILS 

Where: Ashton Gate
When: Tuesday, February 16th, 7.45pm KO
Competition: Sky Bet Championship

Referee: Oliver Langford
Assistants: Robert Merchant and Adam Crysell
Fourth official: Daniel Middleton